Krithigai is an important Nakshatra (star) in Hindu astrology, deeply associated with Lord Muruga (Skanda / Subramanya). Thai Krithigai is observed when the Krithigai star occurs in the Tamil month of Thai (January–February). Among Murugan devotees, this day is considered highly auspicious for prayer, fasting, and spiritual progress.
While Krithigai appears every month, Thai Krithigai and Aadi Krithigai hold exceptional importance due to their cosmic and spiritual alignment with the Sun’s movement.
What is Krithigai Nakshatra?
Krithigai is one of the 27 Nakshatras in Hindu astrology and is directly connected to the birth and divine story of Lord Muruga.
Key Beliefs Associated with Krithigai
- Lord Muruga was born under the Krithigai Nakshatra
- The star represents divine fire, power, and spiritual awakening
- Worship on Krithigai days is believed to fulfill devotees’ sincere wishes
Mythological Significance of Thai Krithigai
According to the Skanda Purana, Lord Muruga was born from the third eye of Lord Shiva in the form of six divine flames.
Divine Birth Story of Lord Muruga
- The six flames emerged from Lord Shiva’s third eye
- Agni (Fire God) and Vayu (Wind God) carried these flames
- The flames reached Saravana Poigai (sacred pond)
- Six lotus flowers bloomed, each holding a divine baby
- Kaarthigai Pengal (Krittika maidens) nurtured the six infants
- Goddess Parvati later united them into one six-faced Muruga (Arumugam)
As a reward for their divine service, Lord Shiva elevated the Krittikas to celestial star status, known today as Krithigai Nakshatra.
Why Thai Krithigai is Highly Auspicious
Thai Krithigai occurs during the Tamil month of Thai, which marks the Uttarayana period—the northward movement of the Sun, considered spiritually uplifting.
Spiritual Importance
- Thai marks the beginning of new spiritual energy
- Worship on Thai Krithigai is believed to:
- Remove obstacles
- Grant courage, wisdom, and success
- Fulfill sincere prayers
- Provide protection and clarity
It is believed that Lord Shiva promised devotees that worshipping Lord Muruga on Krithigai days would make their wishes fruitful.
How Thai Krithigai is Observed
Thai Krithigai is observed with devotion both at home and in temples.
Common Rituals Followed
- Observing fasting or partial fasting
- Consuming simple vegetarian food
- Chanting Murugan mantras and hymns
- Visiting Murugan temples
- Offering flowers, fruits, and lamps
Popular Devotional Practices
- Chanting Skanda Sashti Kavacham
- Reciting Murugan Ashtothram
- Lighting oil lamps in the evening
- Meditating on Lord Muruga’s Vel
Thai Krithigai: Ancient Roots and Pre-Vedic History
The celebration of Thai Krithigai dates back to the pre-Vedic era, when Lord Muruga was worshipped by Gods, demigods, and sages with great reverence. Ancient Tamil traditions regard Muruga as the primary deity of the land, long before structured temple worship evolved.
This makes Thai Keerthigai not only a religious observance but also a cultural and historical celebration of Tamil spirituality.
Global Observance of Thai Krithigai
While Thai Krithigai is primarily a Tamil and South Indian observance, its influence extends globally wherever Tamil communities thrive.
Countries Where Thai Krithigai is Celebrated
- India (Tamil Nadu and Murugan temples across the country)
- Sri Lanka
- Malaysia
- Singapore
- South Africa, Mauritius, Australia, and other regions
Murugan temples in these countries conduct special poojas, abhishekams, and devotional gatherings on Thai Krithigai.
