Every year on Akshaya Tritiya, millions of Indians rush to buy gold. But what is the deeper reason behind this custom? Is it just about tradition, or is there wisdom in this ancient practice? In 2025, with gold prices reaching record highs, many are questioning whether this practice still makes sense.
In this blog, based on an insightful conversation from the Indian Community Podcast with hosts Amit Gupta and Rahul Mehra, we unpack the mythology, economic trends, and emotional connection that drive this age-old tradition.
Table of contents
What is Akshaya Tritiya? The Mythological Significance
In Hindu culture, Akshaya Tritiya is considered one of the most auspicious days of the year. The word “Akshaya” means eternal or never diminishing. It is believed that any act of generosity, investment, or new beginning made on this day will multiply endlessly.
A beautiful story from the Mahabharata ties gold to abundance. During their exile, the Pandavas received a divine gift from Lord Krishna for Draupadi — the Akshaya Patra, a magical vessel that never ran out of food. Over centuries, gold came to symbolize the same kind of never-ending prosperity. Hence, purchasing gold on Akshaya Tritiya is seen as a way to invite eternal wealth into the household.
Should You Buy Gold in 2025?
In 2025, gold has crossed ₹1 lakh per 10 grams. This sharp rise has led many to ask: Is buying gold still wise?
Rahul Mehra’s Take: “Gold Has Emotional and Cultural Value”
For many Indian families, gold represents more than wealth — it’s security, tradition, and emotion. Our parents viewed gold as “wealth you could hold.” Today, with digital assets and diversified investments, gold’s role has evolved, but its cultural importance remains.
Can Everyone Afford Gold Today?
Rahul notes that many people, especially in lower income groups, buy steel or silver utensils instead — as these are still seen as symbols of prosperity on Akshaya Tritiya. So, celebrating the tradition doesn’t have to mean buying gold specifically.
Market Insight: Will Gold Prices Crash?
With prices soaring, many financial experts are predicting a possible correction.
- Gold has risen over 30% in recent months.
- Safe-haven demand driven by geopolitical uncertainty has pushed prices up.
- Experts forecast a 10% potential drop as demand stabilizes and alternative investments attract capital.
“When something goes up very fast, it usually comes down just as fast.” — Rahul Mehra
So, if you’re buying gold, avoid short-term speculation. Treat it as a long-term investment, especially given its historical upward trend over several years.
Buying Gold: India vs. the US for NRIs
Should Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) buy gold in the US or India?
Buying in the US:
- You get certified purity and secure storage.
- Big retailers like Costco offer gold bars.
- Easier compliance with local regulations.
Buying in India:
- Brings emotional and cultural fulfillment.
- Traditional goldsmiths are part of family heritage.
- However, purity and certification may vary outside branded outlets.
⚠️ Note: There are customs limits on how much gold you can carry from the US to India.
Sovereign Gold Bonds: A Smart Digital Alternative
With the rising popularity of digital finance, Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) are changing how Indians invest in gold.
- Issued by the government, they offer safety and guaranteed returns.
- You earn annual interest and avoid making/storage charges.
- Tax advantages apply if held to maturity (in India).
So if you want exposure to gold without buying physical gold, this is a modern, secure alternative.
Final Thoughts: Follow the Tradition with Awareness
Akshaya Tritiya is not just about buying gold — it’s about inviting prosperity, starting new ventures, and making meaningful investments.
Whether you:
- Buy physical gold,
- Invest in digital gold or bonds, or
- Simply bring home a steel utensil…
…the essence is the intention of abundance.
💡 Pro Tip for 2025:
If gold prices seem too high, consider waiting for a dip, investing through SGBs, or celebrating in a simpler way that still honors the spirit of Akshaya Tritiya.