Sheetla Ashtami Puja Method: There are many festivals in Hindu religion which are directly related to folk traditions and faith. One such important festival is Shitala Ashtami, which is also called Basoda in many places. On this day, Mother Shitala is worshiped and wishes for the health, happiness and prosperity of the family. A special tradition is also followed on this day that stoves are not lit in homes on this day. Let us know the special reason for this.
Sheetala Ashtami date
According to the religious calendar, the Ashtami tithi of Sheetala Ashtami has started on March 11 at 1:54 pm and will end on March 12 at 4:19 am.
Why is the stove not lit?
There is a special tradition of not lighting the stove on the day of Shitala Ashtami. It is believed that on this day cold food (stale food) is offered to Mother Shitala. Therefore, food is prepared and kept a day before, i.e. on Saptami day itself. Next day the same cold food is offered to the mother and the family members also consume the same food. It is also called Basoda in many places. According to religious belief, Mother Sheetala is considered to be related to coolness, health and protection from diseases. Therefore, no fire is lit on this day and cold food is consumed.
How is puja done?
On the day of Sheetala Ashtami, Mother Sheetala is worshiped after waking up early in the morning and taking bath. Devotees offer cold food, curd, rice, puri, jaggery and halwa etc. to the goddess. In many places, women go to the temple to listen to the story of Sheetala Mata and pray for the happiness and peace of the family. After this the same cold food is consumed as Prasad.
What is the message of this tradition?
Sheetala Ashtami is not only a festival of religious faith, but there is also a message related to health behind it. This festival signals the importance of cleanliness, balanced diet and caution during changing seasons. In this way, the festival of Sheetala Ashtami is considered to be a unique confluence of faith, tradition and health.
Importance of worshiping Shitala Mata
The festival of Sheetala Ashtami is especially dedicated to Mother Sheetala. It is believed that the devotees who worship with devotion on this day, diseases, infections and illnesses stay away from their homes. According to ancient beliefs, Mother Sheetala is considered the goddess of smallpox and other infectious diseases. Therefore, people worship Mother Goddess for the good health of their children and family.
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Disclaimer: The information given in this news is based on religious beliefs and general information. TV9 Bharatvarsha does not confirm this.