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Regional Goddess · North Indian Form of Shitala

Sheetala

शीतला
Also known as: Śītalā, Sheetala Mata, Cool Mother

About

The North Indian form of Shitala, goddess of smallpox and epidemics. Worshipped in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Bihar. Considered the mother who both causes and cures diseases. Her worship involves offerings of cold food, water, and neem leaves.

Attributes

SmallpoxEpidemicsHealingCoolnessProtection

Symbols

BroomWater potNeem leavesDonkeyCold food
Vahana (Mount)
Donkey

Associated Mantras

Om Śītalāyai Namaḥ
Sheetala Stotram
Sheetala Ashtakam

Festivals

Sheetala SaptamiSheetala AshtamiSheetala Puja (Holi week)

Scriptures

Sheetala PuranaFolk traditions

Regions Worshipped

Uttar PradeshRajasthanBiharMadhya PradeshHaryana

Iconography

Dark complexion, seated on donkey. Holds broom, water pot, and neem leaves. Often depicted with a winnowing basket. Wearing simple clothing.