Sheetala Saptami is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Sheetala, who is worshipped for protection against diseases, especially smallpox, chickenpox, and other infections. The festival is observed mainly in North India, including states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. Devotees observe rituals and fast on this day to seek the blessings of Goddess Sheetala for good health and well-being.
This festival falls on the seventh day (Saptami) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Chaitra, which typically corresponds to March or April in the Gregorian calendar. It is closely associated with Sheetala Ashtami, which is observed the next day and is considered more popular among devotees.
Mythological Significance
The worship of Goddess Sheetala is rooted in Hindu mythology. She is regarded as a manifestation of Maa Parvati and is depicted carrying a broom, a pot of water, and neem leaves, which symbolize cleanliness and healing. According to the Skanda Purana, Goddess Sheetala bestows health and protects her devotees from contagious diseases.
The Legend of Goddess Sheetala
One of the most prominent legends related to Sheetala Saptami revolves around King Birat and his kingdom. It is believed that once a severe outbreak of smallpox affected his people. After praying to Goddess Sheetala with devotion and following her prescribed rituals, the epidemic subsided. Since then, the practice of worshipping Goddess Sheetala became prevalent among devotees seeking her divine grace for protection from diseases.
Another legend suggests that Maa Sheetala was created by Lord Shiva upon the request of gods to protect humanity from the wrath of infectious diseases. She was given the power to cure and prevent ailments, and thus devotees seek her blessings to ward off illnesses.
Rituals and Observances
The festival of Sheetala Saptami is observed with great devotion, and devotees follow various rituals, including fasting, temple visits, and special pujas. Below are some common practices followed on this auspicious day:
1. Fasting (Vrat)
Many devotees observe a strict fast on Sheetala Saptami. Some follow a Nirjala Vrat (fasting without water), while others consume simple food like fruits and milk. Fasting is believed to purify the body and help devotees attain divine blessings.
2. Preparation of Basoda Prasad
One of the unique traditions associated with this festival is the preparation of Basoda Prasad. Basoda means “stale food,” and it is believed that cooking is prohibited on this day. Devotees prepare food a day before Sheetala Saptami and consume it as prasad after offering it to the Goddess. This practice symbolizes the importance of avoiding fire and ensuring that the body rests to prevent the spread of diseases.
Common Basoda Dishes Include:
– Bajra (millet) roti
– Curd (yogurt)
– Rice
– Pua or sweet fritters
– Cold vegetables like aloo sabzi
– Jaggery and buttermilk
3. Puja Vidhi (Worship Rituals)
– Devotees wake up early, take a holy bath, and wear clean clothes.
– They visit Sheetala Mata temples and offer flowers, turmeric, neem leaves, and rice to the deity.
– The Goddess is bathed with cool water, curd, and turmeric, signifying purification and healing.
– Special bhajans and kirtans are performed in praise of Goddess Sheetala.
– People also donate food, clothes, and essential items to the poor and needy as part of their devotion.
– Women especially pray for the well-being of their children and family members.
4. Use of Neem Leaves and Cooling Agents
Neem leaves are an essential part of this festival, as they possess medicinal properties and are believed to purify the surroundings. Devotees place neem leaves on doors and windows to ward off diseases. They also drink neem-infused water as a preventive measure. Some even bathe in neem-infused water to seek protection from skin ailments and infections.
Regional Celebrations
Sheetala Saptami is widely celebrated in different states, each having its unique customs and traditions.
1. Rajasthan
In Rajasthan, especially in Jaipur and nearby regions, Sheetala Mata temples see a large influx of devotees. Women observe a strict fast and offer bajra rotis (millet bread), curd, and jaggery to the deity. Folk songs dedicated to Goddess Sheetala are sung during the celebrations. Some prominent temples dedicated to Maa Sheetala include Sheetla Mata Mandir in Amer and Sheetla Mata Temple in Jhunjhunu.
2. Gujarat
In Gujarat, the festival is called Sheetala Satam and is observed with great enthusiasm. Families prepare food a day before and avoid cooking on the day of the festival. Special fairs and processions are held in honor of Goddess Sheetala. Devotees also offer chickpeas, curd, and sweetmeats to the Goddess.
3. Uttar Pradesh and Bihar
In Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, devotees worship Sheetala Mata at local temples and distribute food among the poor. People also visit water bodies and perform cleansing rituals to seek protection from ailments. Devotees often recite the Sheetala Mata Vrat Katha, narrating the divine stories of the Goddess.
4. West Bengal
In West Bengal, Goddess Sheetala is worshipped mainly in rural areas, where villagers gather to offer prayers and seek protection from contagious diseases. The festival is celebrated with simple rituals, where clay idols of the deity are often worshipped before being immersed in a river or pond.
Health and Scientific Relevance
The observances of Sheetala Saptami align with scientific principles of hygiene and disease prevention. The festival occurs at the transition from winter to summer, a period when infections like chickenpox and smallpox were historically prevalent. The use of neem leaves, turmeric, and pre-cooked food serves as a natural way to prevent bacterial contamination and maintain health.
Additionally, fasting and consuming cold food help regulate body temperature, making this festival not just a religious practice but also a practical approach to health and well-being. The significance of neem as an antiseptic and natural healer further validates the customs associated with this festival.
Temples Dedicated to Sheetala Mata
Many temples across India are dedicated to Goddess Sheetala, where grand celebrations take place on this occasion. Some of the prominent ones include:
– Sheetala Mata Temple, Gurgaon (Haryana) – One of the most famous shrines, visited by thousands of devotees.
– Sheetala Mata Temple, Jhunjhunu (Rajasthan) – Known for its historical and spiritual significance.
– Sheetala Mata Mandir, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) – A revered temple known for its healing powers.
Sheetala Saptami is an important festival that underscores the significance of health, hygiene, and devotion. By worshipping Goddess Sheetala, devotees seek protection from ailments and express gratitude for their well-being. The traditions followed during this festival have deep-rooted cultural and scientific importance, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness, natural remedies, and community well-being.