In today’s post we’ll see about How Agni Nakshatra came into existence!

We all are aware that the Period of Agni nakshatra or கத்திரி is from 4-May-17 and will exist for the period of 21 days but does anyone know how the so called Agni nakshatra period came into existence?

Long time back in the history, swethaki yagna was conducted by pouring ghee into the fire for a continuous period of about 12 years. Due to the consumption of Ghee Agni Deva became slothy and bloated. Hence to reduce the fat accumulated in his body, Lord agni was advised to consume the kandava forest. Knowing this, the creatures in the forest were frightened and surrendered to Lord Varuna, the lord of rain to protect them.

Lord Varuna also accepted their plea. Lord Agni was frustrated by this act of Lord Varuna and pleaded lord Krishna to help him consume the forest. Lord Krishna yielded to him and in-turn asked Arjuna to fire arrows above the forest and protect it from rain so Lord Agni would be able to consume the forest. However on one condition, that Lord Agni had only 21 days of time to consume the forest. Hence these 21 days are called the Agni Nakshatra.

The Agni nakshatra heat can be combated by praying to Lord Muruga and Goddess Meenakshi. Lord Bramha, Goddess Durga and Lord Agni can be worshiped during these days to yield best results. It is believed that performing dhaan during these 21 days can help us baffle the heat of Lord Agni.