“शीतले त्वं जगन्माता शीतले त्वं जगत्पिता।
शीतले त्वं जगद्धात्री शीतलायै नमो नमः।।
These sacred verses echo the spirited devotion of millions, invoking the divine presence of Goddess Sheetala Mata. Sheetala Ashtami, also known as Basora Puja or Basoda Puja, is celebrated on the eighth day after Holi, honouring the gracious goddess who bestows protection from diseases and menace.
Ancient texts narrate a tale of divine intervention as follows, an Asura named Javarasura would afflict children with high fevers. Mata Katyayani then assumed the form of Sheetala Mata to aid the ailing children. It’s believed that Sheetala Mata’s presence, causing the rashes from chickenpox, served as a means of curing the body from within, saving children from the ravages of Javarasura’s fevers.
Symbols of Divine Grace:
Goddess Sheetala Mata is adorned with symbolic attributes that embody her divine essence. Seated upon a donkey or a white owl, she embodies devotion, wisdom, and purity. The broom she wields signifies the purification of body and soul, while the fan represents her insightful gaze that separates truth from illusion.
Sheetala Mata is traditionally represented as a young maiden crowned with a winnowing fan, riding a donkey, and holding a short broom to spread the content of her pot full of viral pustules or cold water of immortality. The broom symbolizes cleanliness and the removal of impurities, both physical and spiritual. It signifies the goddess’s role in purifying and protecting devotees from diseases and afflictions. The winnowing fan represents the process of separating the grain from the chaff, metaphorically representing the goddess’s ability to discern between good and evil and promote spiritual well-being.
Mythological Significance:
According to popular beliefs, Goddess Sheetala Mata emerged during the time of the great churning of the cosmic ocean, known as the Samudra Manthan. As the gods and demons churned the ocean to obtain the elixir of immortality, a poisonous substance called Halahala emerged, threatening to engulf the entire universe. In response, Lord Shiva summoned Sheetala Mata, empowering her to combat the deadly effects of the poison. She bravely consumed the Halahala, balancing out its potency and safeguarding the universe from its destructive power.
The Sacred Rituals:
The Festival of Sheetala Ashtami falls at the beginning of the summer season during the month of March-April. The major festival is observed in the northern and western villages and primarily in the areas of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. In Southern India, the deity is worshipped with a different name, Goddess Mariamman or Goddess Poleramma.
A Sanctuary of Devotion:
In the centre of Gurgaon, Haryana lies the famed Sheetala Mata Temple. This sanctuary of devotion, with its centuries-old history, intricately carved architecture, and vibrant hues, attracts devotees from far and wide, especially during the auspicious Sheetla Ashtami festival. Rooted in local folklore and traditions, the temple offers visitors an immersive experience in the rich religious and cultural heritage of the region.
Invocation of Divine Blessings:
Vandehan Sheetala Devi, Rasabhasththaandigambaraam,
Maarjaneekalashopetaan Soorpaalankrtamastakaam.
These timeless verses invoke the presence of Sheetala Mata, bestowing her divine blessings upon all who seek solace and healing.
