Krittika Nakshatra represents fire, purification, courage and the transformative force of creation. The name comes from the Sanskrit word “Kritt,” meaning “to cut.” This nakshatra is deeply connected with Agni, the Sun and the divine story of Lord Kartikeya.

Astronomical Details of Krittika Nakshatra

Parameter	Description
Degree Range	Aries 26°40′ to Taurus 10°00′
Nakshatra Lord	Sun
Presiding Deity	Agni
Symbols	Sickle, knife, flame
Element	Fire
Gana	Rakshasa
Varna	Vaishya
Yoni	Female sheep
Nadi	Madhya
Letters	A, I, U, E
Tree	Cluster fig

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The Motherhood of the Krittikas and the Slaying of Tarakasura

Long ago, the demon Tarakasura overpowered the gods due to a boon from Brahma. He could only be defeated by the son of Shiva. When the moment arrived, a blazing fire-light manifested from Shiva. It was too intense for the gods to handle, so Agni absorbed it, but even he struggled with its power.

The divine fire was then carried by the river Ganga, where it rested upon a lotus. The Krittikas, the wives of the Saptarishis, saw this radiant force. Their collective maternal energy transformed the fire into a divine child.

Thus was born Kartikeya, raised by the six Krittikas with love, discipline and warrior training. Over time, Kartikeya grew into a brilliant commander and ultimately defeated Tarakasura, restoring the heavens.

This story reflects purification, maternal sacrifice and heroic triumph.

Krittika Nakshatra: Symbol of Fire, Purification and Leadership

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Philosophical and Spiritual Insights

Symbolism of Fire

Aspect	Meaning
Purification	Burning impurities
Transformation	Creation through change
Knowledge	Light dispelling darkness
Sacrifice	Offering in sacred fire

Motherhood of the Krittikas

• Protective nature
• Teaching and discipline
• Collective support and unity

Connection with the Pleiades

• Krittika corresponds to the Pleiades star cluster
• Estimated age: one billion years
• Considered a symbol of transformation in Indian tradition

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Traits Inspired by Mythology

Trait	Mythic Reference
Courage	Kartikeya’s valor
Creativity	Fire’s power to transform
Leadership	Commander of the divine army
Purification	Influence of Agni

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Message of Inspiration

• The sacrifice of the Krittikas shows the purity of nurturing love.
• Fire teaches transformation and inner cleansing.
• Kartikeya represents strength, righteousness and fearless duty.
• Krittika Nakshatra inspires courage, discipline and the power to rise renewed.

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FAQs

1. What is the primary symbol of Krittika Nakshatra?
Fire, representing purification and transformation.

2. How is Kartikeya’s birth connected to Krittika Nakshatra?
The Krittikas nurtured Shiva’s divine fire into the form of Kartikeya.

3. What qualities are common in natives of this nakshatra?
Courage, leadership, creativity and purity of purpose.

4. Which star cluster is associated with Krittika?
The Pleiades, known in Indian astronomy as the Krittikas.

5. What is the spiritual message of this nakshatra?
To purify oneself like fire and walk the path of courage and righteousness.