Masik Karthigai is the day of Kruthika Star in the Hindu Calendar month. On this day, Vrat is observed and special Pujas and Prayers are offered to Bhagwan Shiva.
The ensuing Masik Karthigai is on Saturday, 16th November 2024. The exact duration of the Kruthika star has to be ascertained from the respective regional calendar.
Masik Karthigai – Legend
As per the legend, it is believed that when Sri Parvathi Devi killed the Demon Mahishasur, the Shivling in his neck ornament got stuck with Sri Parvathi Devi’s fingers.
She could not remove it. This was considered as Shiv Dosh (lack of respect). So, She wanted to atone the Dosh.
She had observed Vrat and performed Puja to Bhagwan Shiva. Because of this, She was alleviated from the Dosh.
The day when Sri Parvathi Devi did Puja to do away with Shiv Dosh was a day of Kruthika Star.
Further, only on a Kruthika Star day, Bhagwan Shiva had given His left side Body to Sri Parvathi to signify that She is His better half.
Hence Kruthika Star day is significant.
How is it observed
People observing this Vrat undergo fasting either for the whole day or for two sessions. Special prayers and Abhishekams are done to Bhagwan Shiva. Vedic Mantras are chanted at Shiv Temples.
Karthigai Vrat is also observed in prayer to Bhagwan Muruga.
Bhagwan Muruga is called as Karthikeya because He was brought up by the six Karthika girls namely Dula, Nitatni, Abhrayanti, Varshayanti, Meghayanti and Chipunika. They brought up Bhagwan Muruga as directed by Bhagwan Shiva.
Om Nama Shivaya!!!
Om Muruga!!!
