Shitala
| Shitala | |
|---|---|
Disease, especially smallpox | |
| Script error: No such module "InfoboxImage". A depiction of Shitala Mata | |
| Abode | Earth |
| Mantra | Om Shitalaaya Namah |
| Mount | Donkey |
| Consort | Shiva |
Shitala (also spelled as Sheetala) is a Hindu goddess venerated primarily in North India, West Bengal, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. She is worshipped as the goddess of smallpox and other infectious diseases, and her name means "the one who cools" in Sanskrit. Shitala is often depicted as a young maiden riding a donkey, carrying a broom, a winnowing fan, a pot of water, and a bowl of pulses.
Mythology and Worship[edit | edit source]
Shitala is believed to be an incarnation of Parvati, the consort of Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, she is responsible for spreading and curing smallpox and other contagious diseases. Her worship is intended to appease her and prevent outbreaks of disease.
The goddess is worshipped during the month of Chaitra (March-April) in a festival known as Shitala Ashtami. Devotees observe a fast and offer prayers to Shitala, seeking her blessings for health and protection from diseases. It is customary to prepare cold food the day before the festival, as cooking is prohibited on the day of Shitala Ashtami.
Iconography[edit | edit source]
Shitala is typically depicted as a young woman riding a donkey. She holds a broom in one hand, symbolizing her ability to sweep away disease, and a winnowing fan in another, representing her power to cool fever. The pot of water she carries is believed to have healing properties, and the bowl of pulses signifies nourishment and sustenance.
Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]
Shitala is revered in various regions of India and neighboring countries. In West Bengal, she is known as Shitala Thakurani and is worshipped with great fervor. In Rajasthan, she is called Shitala Mata, and her temples are often found in rural areas where she is believed to protect against epidemics.
In Nepal, Shitala is worshipped as a guardian deity, and her temples are visited by those seeking relief from skin diseases and fevers. Her worship is also prevalent in Bangladesh, where she is considered a protector of children.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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