Traditionally arranged "Kumbam" at the entrance of Lalitha Jewellery Mart to welcome the customers

"Akshaya Tritiya", the third day of the new moon, It is considered one of the most sacred days of the year. The word `Akshaya' means that which never diminishes.

Women thronged the jewellery shops and purchased jewelleries. Akshaya Tritiya is considered the most auspicious day to invest in gold. The Hindus believe gold brings luck and eternal success. It's the golden day of the year. This year Akshya Tritiya was observed on April 20th.

Gold stands for goodness, purity, wealth and social standing in some cultures, there is an added aura of sanctity and divinity.

All its attributes are personified in the Goddess Lakshmi. Gold has very strong associations with good fortune and prosperity. In essence the idea behind the festival of "Akshaya Tritiyai".

Fresh flower garlands decorate the jewellery shop

Latha Sivapalan tries a necklace

"I buy new jewellery on Akshya Tritiya annually. Gold brings happiness and prosperity to my family" says Latha Sivapalan

Gold is considerd as a long term asset

Akshaya Tritiya has become a "Gold rush" day

Banana trees, fresh flower garlands and "Thoranam' decorate the Jewellery shop, in Colombo, Sri Lanka