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Regional Goddess · Bengal Form of Shitala

Sitala (Bengal)

शीतला
Also known as: Śītalā, Sitala Ma, Basanta Rani

About

The Bengal form of Shitala, goddess of smallpox and epidemics. Worshipped particularly in West Bengal with elaborate rituals. Considered both a giver of disease and a healer. Her worship involves cold offerings and the application of neem paste.

Attributes

SmallpoxEpidemicsHealingCoolnessVillage mother

Symbols

BroomWater potNeem leavesDonkeyCold rice
Vahana (Mount)
Donkey

Associated Mantras

Om Śītalāyai Namaḥ
Sitala Stotram
Sitala Mangal Kavya

Festivals

Sitala Puja (Chaitra month)Sitala Ashtami

Scriptures

Sitala PuranaMangal Kavya

Regions Worshipped

West BengalBangladeshAssam

Iconography

Dark complexion, seated on donkey. Holds broom, water pot, and neem leaves. Often depicted with a winnowing basket. Simple, folk appearance.