Kratu (क्रतु)

This article needs editing. Add and improvise the content from reliable sources.

In the extensive Vedic literature one comes across several mystical mantras that speak of the Supreme Godhead as present in the center of a sacrificial fire, with seven sages seated on its perimeter, engrossed in worship by pouring oblations into that Supreme Fire. By performing this sacrifice they destroy the sins of others and purify the whole world. Kratu literally means a Vedic sacrifice in which oblations are offered in the sacred fire. The name of this maharshi is thus exceptionally symbolic and indicates the reverence commanded by him from one and all.

Maharshi Kratu was one of the Saptarishis who were born of Brahma's mind while it was concentrated by austerities and directed towards the new cycle of creation. He is also believed to have spring from the vision of his father's left eye. These mind-born sages were the original progenitors.

Maharshi Kratu's consort was Sannati, daughter of Daksha Prajapati and Kriya. His offspring were the sixty thousand Sages called Balakhilyas, who were allegorically known to be the size of a thumb and used to reside on the banks of rivers. The Balakhilyas were once insulted by Indra. Agitated at this, they propitiated Shiva. Such was their devotion that the Lord was pleased with them, and declared, ‘You shall succeed by your penances in creating a bird that will rob Indra of the nectar he possesses.’ They were worshipers of  Surya, the sun god, and are sometimes depicted as the gods’ constant and worshipful companions,. The mythologies furnish a sparse view of Maharshi Kratu. He is known to be a constituent in the councils of the gods Brahma and Indra.