Aadi Krithigai 2026: Is It on August 6 or August 7? Date, Significance, Fasting Rituals & What to Do

Aadi Krithigai is one of the most sacred festivals dedicated to Lord Murugan. Devotees observe this auspicious day by offering prayers, carrying Kavadi and Paal Kudam (milk pots), performing milk abhishekam, and observing a fast to seek blessings for marriage, career, children, health, and prosperity.

What is Karthigai Viratham?

The Karthigai Nakshatra is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Murugan. The Karthigai Viratham is observed in honour of the six Karthigai maidens who nurtured Lord Murugan, which is why He is also known as Karthikeya.

Devotees believe that observing this fast with devotion brings the blessings of Lord Murugan and is especially beneficial for couples praying for childbirth and family well-being.

Why is Aadi Krithigai Special?

Among the monthly Karthigai observances, Aadi Krithigai and Thai Krithigai hold special significance. The Tamil month of Aadi is considered highly auspicious for worshipping both Goddess Amman and Lord Murugan.

It is believed that those seeking the blessing of children should begin the Karthigai Viratham on Aadi Krithigai and conclude it on Thai Krithigai.

Aadi Krithigai 2026: August 6 or August 7?

Although some calendars mention August 6, 2026, the Karthigai Nakshatra begins only in the evening on that day.

Aadi Krithigai 2026 Timings
Karthigai Nakshatra Begins: August 6, 2026 – 6:19 PM
Karthigai Nakshatra Ends: August 7, 2026 – 4:51 PM

Since the Karthigai Nakshatra prevails throughout the daytime on August 7, devotees should observe Aadi Krithigai on Friday, August 7, 2026.

What Should You Do on Aadi Krithigai?

- Wake up early, take a holy bath, and wear clean clothes.
- Observe a fast with devotion throughout the day.
- Visit Murugan temples such as Palani, Tiruttani, or your nearby Murugan temple.
- Offer milk abhishekam, Panchamirtham, sandalwood paste, fruits, and flowers.
- Carry Paal Kudam or Kavadi, if possible.
- Light lamps and perform special prayers to Lord Murugan.
- Chant Murugan mantras and recite Kanda Sashti Kavasam, Kanda - Guru Kavasam, Thiruppugazh, and Vel Maral.
- Offer Sakkarai Pongal, milk, fruits, and Panchamirtham as Naivedyam before concluding the fast in the evening.

This year, Aadi Krithigai coincides with Aadi Friday, making it an even more auspicious occasion. Devotees believe that sincere prayers and fasting on this day bring the combined blessings of Lord Murugan and Goddess Amman, helping fulfil heartfelt wishes.