Krithigai Vrat to attain Moksha

Krithigai star is Lord Murugan's star. Worshipping Lord Murugan every month on Krithigai star day is considered auspicious and it is believed that the worshipper will attain Moksha. Karthigai denotes Lord Murugan's other name 'Karthikeyan'. 

On Krithigai day, special poojas and abhishegams will be done to Lord Murugan. Though Krithigai is celebrated every month by Lord Muruga's devotees, Aadi month's Krithigai is considered very special.

According to legend, asuras like Padmasuran, Singamugan threatened sages. These sages came to Parvathy devi seeking help. Parvathy Devi sent them to Akilandeswar, asking him to kill the asuras.  

It was the period when Lord Shiva was in fire avatar under meditation. Lord Shiva gave up his meditation to kill the asuras as per Parvathy Devi's words. Lord Shiva opened his third eye, and six forms of light emerged from his eye. 6 children were formed in 6 lotuses. Six 'karthigai pengal' held the responsibilities for each child.