Sheetala Saptami is a Hindu festival celebrated annually on March 21. This festival is dedicated to Goddess Shitla, who is believed to protect people from infectious diseases and illnesses. According to Hindu beliefs, worshipping Mata Shitla, especially during the summer season, helps maintain the cleanliness of both the body and the environment.
Sheetala Saptami is primarily observed in the northern and western states of India, particularly in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Haryana. On this auspicious day, let's explore the significance, rituals, and more details related to the festival, as outlined below.
About Sheetala Saptami
Sheetala Saptami is also known as Basoda Puja. This year, the festival is observed on Friday. In Sanskrit, ''Sheetala'' means'' one who cools. Shitala is worshiped under different names in different regions. In India, the goddess is popularly worshipped in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. While outside India, she is worshipped in Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
In Skanda Purana, Mata Sheetal'sSheetal's vahana (vehicle) is a donkey. She holds a pot, neem leaves, a sieve, and a broom in her hands. According to some Hindu legends, Goddess Sheetla also cures diseases like smallpox or chickenpox.
Sheetala Saptami 2025: Date and Muhurat
Sheetala Saptami is celebrated on the seventh day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Chaitra. According to the Drig Panchang, Sheetal Saptami will observed from today. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Sheetala Saptami Date: March 21, 2025
Saptami Tithi Begins: 02:45 AM on March 21, 2025
Sheetala Ashtami: Saturday, March 22, 2025
Ashtami Tithi Begins: 04:23 AM on March 22, 2025
Ashtami Tithi Ends: 05:23 AM on March 23, 2025
Rituals of Sheetala Saptami
On this day, devotees should wake up early and take a bath before the Sunrise. After that, they should visit Goddess Sheetla Mata temples and worship the goddess. As per tradition, no fresh food is prepared on this day, and devotees should consume the food prepared the day before. On this day, devotees should offer the deity mustard seeds, cold water, and milk.
