Krittika Nakshatra: Meaning, Symbols, Deities, and Four Padas

Neha Chauhan
Aug 26, 2025
2 min read

Krittika Nakshatra, spanning from 26°40’ Aries to 10°00’ Taurus, is the third lunar mansion in Vedic astrology. Its ruling planet is the Sun, and it shines with energy, vitality, and transformative power. The word Krittika means “the cutter,” symbolizing sharpness, precision, and the ability to purify through fire.

Symbols of Krittika Nakshatra

A Razor/Blade – Represents sharpness, clarity, and the ability to cut away illusions.
A Flame – Symbolizes purification, transformation, and illumination.
Cooking Pot/Fire Hearth – Connected with nourishment, digestion, and the inner fire (agni) that sustains life.

These symbols show that Krittika natives carry both destructive and nurturing energy — the power to burn away impurities and the warmth to provide sustenance.

Deity of Krittika Nakshatra

The presiding deity is Agni, the God of Fire. Agni governs purification, digestion, sacrifice, and illumination. Through Agni, Krittika gains the qualities of determination, passion, courage, and the power to cleanse what is impure or unnecessary.

Characteristics of Krittika Natives

Natural leaders with fiery energy and charisma.
Sharp, intelligent, and capable of deep transformation.
Honest and straightforward, sometimes to the point of bluntness.
Protective and nurturing, especially towards family.
Can struggle with anger or impatience if their fire is not directed positively.

Four Padas of Krittika Nakshatra

Pada 1 (26°40′ – 30° Aries): Sagittarius Navamsa (ruled by Jupiter)Truth-seeking, adventurous, outspoken. Carries fiery idealism and a moral compass.
Pada 2 (0° – 3°20′ Taurus): Capricorn Navamsa (ruled by Saturn)Grounded, disciplined, responsible. These natives use their energy constructively.
Pada 3 (3°20′ – 6°40′ Taurus): Aquarius Navamsa (ruled by Saturn)Humanitarian, innovative, and forward-thinking. Has a strong community focus.
Pada 4 (6°40′ – 10° Taurus): Pisces Navamsa (ruled by Jupiter)Imaginative, spiritual, and compassionate. Fire energy merges with mystical qualities.

Conclusion

Krittika Nakshatra embodies the dual fire of destruction and nourishment. Just like fire can burn but also cook food, Krittika natives must learn to balance their sharpness with compassion. When aligned, they become powerful leaders, protectors, and transformers who bring light to others.