The third nakshatra, Krittika, resides in the constellations of the Ram and the Bull. The first pada (3° 20′) is in Aries, with the remaining ten degrees in Taurus. The Sun is the ruling planet of this lunar mansion. Thus, in the first pada, a Sun/Mars dynamic is experienced due to the waning Aries influence. leadership, authority, and power may result. The astronomical location of this lunar mansion is in the constellation of the Pleiades. The six brightest stars of the Pleiades form the nakshatra Krittika. They are seen in Hindu mythology as the wives of the Great Seers. Krittika represents the determined and tenacious will to achieve greatness. It is the fighter for a social cause, the spiritual warrior. The ruling deity is Agni, the god of fire and transformation. Krittika’s symbols are a flame, a razor, an axe or other edged weapons. This nakshatra represents the power to burn (dahana shakti)1 or to cut away negativity to get to the deepest truths. Krittika literally means “the cutters” and is called “the star of fire.” Since Agni is the god of the sacred fire, purification is the dominant activity of this lunar mansion. This may be a good nakshatra to. perform a fire ceremony to propitiate Agni. It can bring out the divine qualities in human nature through the fires of purification. Agni is the fire that cooks our food, so there is also a nourishing effect experienced here. Krittika is considered a misra (mixed) nakshatra which is generally good for daily activities such as cooking. Krittika also reflects the aspiration for radical changes in personal and social life. For example, Bob Dylan’s Moon is found in the first pada of this asterism. The remaining ten degrees of Krittika fall in the constellation of Taurus, ruled by the planet Venus. Gifts in the fine arts may be generated through the Venus/Sun influence experienced here. The famous artist Frida Kahlo had her natal Moon placed in the Taurus side of Krittika. A strong desire to create children may result when planets reside here. Beauty, elegance and fashionable dress may be seen here. Princess Diana’s Venus resides in early Taurus. The shadow side of Krittika is a stubborn,  aggressive nature. Destructive tendencies and issues with anger may be observed. A passive aggressive personality may be present. Fiery emotions and a combative nature can result. Illicit affairs and attractions to others’ mates can occur in Krittika. The person may have difficulties concerning his or her diet and eating habits. The primary motivation of Krittika is kama or desire. A child-like nature may be observed here. Thus, a major lesson in this lunar mansion is the discipline over one’s desire nature and finding pleasurable activities that are truly healing and revitalizing.