Sheetla Mata Ashtami, also known as Basoda or Sheetla Ashtami, is a sacred Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Sheetla Mata, the divine protector against diseases and infections. The festival is widely celebrated in many parts of India, especially in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Gujarat. Devotees worship Sheetla Mata to seek blessings for good health, protection from epidemics, and the well-being of their families.
This auspicious day is observed on the eighth day (Ashtami) of Krishna Paksha in the month of Chaitra, just after the festival of Holi. The word Sheetla means “coolness”, symbolizing calmness, healing, and relief from fever and illness.
Significance of Sheetla Mata Ashtami
According to Hindu beliefs, Sheetla Mata is the goddess who protects people from contagious diseases such as smallpox, chickenpox, and other infections. In ancient times, when medical facilities were limited, people prayed to Sheetla Mata for protection from epidemics.
Sheetla Mata is usually depicted riding a donkey, holding a broom, a winnowing fan, and a pot of cooling water. The broom symbolizes cleaning and removal of impurities, while the pot of cold water represents healing and soothing energy.
Devotees believe that worshipping the goddess on this day removes negativity, protects children from illnesses, and brings peace and prosperity to the household.
Rituals of Sheetla Mata Ashtami Pooja
The rituals of Sheetla Mata Ashtami are unique compared to other Hindu festivals. One of the most important traditions is that no fresh food is cooked on the day of the pooja.
Here are the main rituals followed by devotees:
1. Preparation of Food (Basoda Tradition)
On the day before Sheetla Ashtami, families prepare various dishes such as poori, halwa, kheer, rabri, curd, and other sweets. These dishes are kept overnight and offered to the goddess the next morning. This is why the festival is also called Basoda, meaning “stale food offering.”
2. Early Morning Pooja
Devotees wake up early, take a bath, and visit Sheetla Mata temples. The goddess is worshipped with cold food offerings, flowers, turmeric, kumkum, and incense sticks.
3. Offering of Cold Prasad
The prepared food from the previous day is offered to the goddess as prasad. After the pooja, the same food is shared among family members and neighbors as a blessing.
4. Cleaning and Hygiene Rituals
Homes and surroundings are cleaned as part of the ritual, symbolizing the removal of germs and negative energy.
Spiritual and Health Benefits
Performing Sheetla Mata Ashtami Pooja is believed to bring several spiritual benefits. Devotees believe the goddess blesses them with good health, protection from diseases, and harmony in the family. The rituals also emphasize cleanliness, hygiene, and mindful living.
The tradition of avoiding cooking on this day allows the household to rest and also symbolizes maintaining coolness and calmness in life.
Sheetla Mata Ashtami is not just a religious festival but also a reminder of the importance of health, hygiene, and devotion. By worshipping Goddess Sheetla Mata, devotees seek protection from illnesses and pray for a healthy and peaceful life.
Observing this sacred ritual with devotion strengthens faith and connects families with the rich spiritual traditions of Sanatan Dharma.
