Krittika Vratam is dedicated Murugan and is observed on the
Karthigai Nakshatra day. Karthika or Karthigai is one among the 27 birth stars.
Legend has it that the importance of Karthika Vratham was narrated to Sage
Narada by Ganesha.
The fiery spark that fell from Shiva which finally was born
was six babies were looked after by Six Goddess of the Karthikai constellation.
The six babies were later joined together by Maa Parvati and this led to the incarnation
of Muruga.
Sage Narada wanted to become the greatest Sage and
constantly remain in Brahman realization. Ganesha then advised Sage Narada to
perform the Krittika Vratam.
Other important Vratas dedicated to Muruga are Friday
fasting, Sashti fasting and Skanda Sashti fasting after Diwali.
Muruga is popularly known as Kartik in North
India . In South India , Muruga is
also known as Skanda, Shanmukha, Kartikeya, Saravanabhava, Velayudha, Gangeya,
Subrahmanya, Senapati, Swaminatha, Dandapani…
Devotees observe a fast from sunrise to sunset on the day. Rice prasadam from Murugan kovil is consumed by some people in the noon.
Prayers and mantras dedicated to Muruga are chanted on the day. Some people read stories of Muruga from Puranas.
Visiting Muruga shrines atop a hill or on the banks of rivers is considered meritorious.
Devotees observe a fast from sunrise to sunset on the day. Rice prasadam from Murugan kovil is consumed by some people in the noon.
Prayers and mantras dedicated to Muruga are chanted on the day. Some people read stories of Muruga from Puranas.
Visiting Muruga shrines atop a hill or on the banks of rivers is considered meritorious.