Oldest ISO 9001:2015 certified Rudraksha Organisation in the world. Your Trusted Brand Since 1997
global
» Festival Products and Pujas » Sheetala Ashtami | Basoda Puja 2023

What is Sheetala Ashtami? | Sheetala Ashtami 2023: Date, Tithi Timing

Sheetla Ashtami (Wednesday, March 15, 2023) also known as ‘Basoda Puja’ is celebrated on Ashtami (eighth day) of Krishna Paksha in Chaitra month (April-May).

Sheetala Ashtami

It is the day of Goddess Sheetala celebrated eight days after Holi or on the first Monday or Friday after Holi. Popular in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, Sheetala Ashtami is considered an auspicious day to worship Goddess Sheetala, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. People perform Basoda Puja on this day in order to worship and please the goddess.

Did you know Shitala (Sheetala) Devi is also worshipped by many in North India, West Bengal, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan?

‘Shitala’ or ‘Sheetala’ means ‘the one who cools down (something)’. She is one of the incarnations of Goddess Durga or Shakti and is known for curing ailments such as poxes, sores, pustules, ghouls, and other diseases. She was described in the 17th Century Bengali text Shitala-mangal-kabyas, a poem by Manikra Gangopadhyay. Different Hindu communities, Buddhists, and tribal groups worship the goddess. She is regarded and called by the peoples of northern India as Jagrani, Mangala, Bhagavati, Dayamayi, and Karunamayi. In southern India, the Dravidians regard her Mariamman. The locals of Haryana state worship Shitala Devi as kripi or the wife of Dronacharya.

Book Now Sheetala Mata Puja


Popular and Effective Sheetla Ashtami Products


Durga Idols
Durga idols

Sheetala Mata is an incarnation of Goddess Durga, there is a wide variety of Maa Durga and Maha Kali idols made with 100% natural gemstones. The idols are beautifully crafted and the intricate carving is evident of the excellent craftsmanship involved which makes every piece exclusive. The Durga idol can be placed in your home, office, or shop to seek protection from Goddess Durga. It is also ideal to place it in your puja altar and worship daily.

CLICK HERE TO BUY Durga Idols

Maa Durga Pendants
Maa Durga Pendants

A range of Maa Durga pendants in silver and gold that is appropriate for wearing every day. Shitala Mata is an incarnation of Maa Durga and wearing a Durga locket will bring courage to the wearer. The pendants are made with the purest metals and every design is beautiful. The pendants are suitable to be worn by both men and women and can be even gifted to your loved ones. It makes for a perfect accessory to gain power and prosperity with the blessings of the Goddess.

CLICK HERE TO Buy Maa Durga Pendants

Shree Shitala Mata Yantra Shitala Mata Yantra

Shree Shitala Mata Yantra etched on a gold-plated copper plate is the Yantra that imparts the blessings of Shitala Mata. It safeguards the devotees from diseases and gives them the courage to overcome problems in life. Goddess Shitla is known to cure diseases and offer relief from sickness. This Yantra can be placed in your puja altar or at your shop and office as well. The Yantra is available with a variety of options like a gold finish frame and a brown & gold finish frame.

CLICK HERE TO BUY Shree Shitala Mata Yantra

Shitala maa Glittering Photo Shitala Mata Photos

Glittering photo of Shitala Maa to place in your puja altar and worship every day. The picture depicts Shitala Mata seated on Her Vahan (vehicle) donkey with a broom in one hand and a pot of water on the other hand. The broom in Her hand is to sweep off the diseases and germs while the pot has healing water to cure the devotees. This photo also comes with an acrylic frame that can be placed in your office, shop, or living room.

CLICK HERE TO BUY Shitala maa Glittering Photo

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF GODDESS SHEETLA DEVI:

Basoda Puja

Every deity described in the Vedic literature holds divine objects that are associated with natural elements of the cosmic creation. Seated on an ass, Goddess Sheetla holds a winnowing-fan, a broom, a pot, and a bunch of neem leaves.

Winnowing Fan: Goddess Shitala holds a winnowing-fan which represents purification. A winnowing-tool or fan is used to separate the straw from the grains. It showcases the process of purification. When the body is diseased, it needs to be purified from the ailment and restored to its original state.

Broom: The goddess uses Her divine broom to either spread the germs or dust off the same. Spreading germs here means inflicting the negative with the negative. In the scriptures, She is said to inflict the demons with the fatal germs and heal those suffering from fevers by driving the germs out of their body.

Pot: Goddess Sheetla carries a pot full of healing water. This water is soothing and enlivening. When a person recovers from a fever, he regains his natural state which is to attain a higher state.

Neem leaves: A Neem leaf (Azadirachta indica) in Ayurveda is a medicinal, healing remedy for skin problems and other inner bodily issues. As per Vedic literature, both the body (matter) and the soul (spirit) must be kept together. When both are healthy, it is easier to tread the spiritual path.

Ass: Goddess Sheetla is seated on Her divine vahana (vehicle) ass. It represents one’s being humble, calm and focused on one’s duties in times of crisis like that of a disease.

SIGNIFICANCE OF SHEETALA ASHTAMI: SHEETLA MATA STORY

All the manifestations of Goddess Durga are wonderfully described in the Devi Mahatmaya. Whenever there is an imbalance in the natural order of universal functions, there appears an incarnation of Durga according to time, place, and circumstances. For instance, when the peaceful environment on Earth is interrupted by an invincible demon, Durga chooses the most suitable form in order to kill him.

Once Goddess Durga was incarnated as Katyayani, daughter of Sage Katyayan, and protected the village against the atrocities of demons led by Kaalkeya. One of his demons named Jwarasura infected the village with diseases such as dysentery, smallpox, chickenpox, and cholera. ‘Jwara’ in Sanskrit means ‘fever’. The demon of fever Jwarasura went on spreading the germs of those horrible diseases. Katyayani protected her young friends (children) from the diseases but when the spread intensified, she assumed the form of Sheetala Devi who held a short broom, winnowing fan, a jar of cooling water, and a drinking cup and wiped out the diseases.

Later, She asked Her friend Batuk to stop the demon Jwarasura. However, the demon and Batuk fought a battle resulting in the latter’s death. Being happy and conceited, Jwarasura was surprised to see the body of Batuk turning into dust.

Afterward, Jwarasura encountered a fierce figure with a three-eyed face, four arms holding a battle-ax, sword, trident, and the demon heads. Being dark in color, He had a garland of skulls, frightening Jwarasura. When Jwarasura inquired from Him about His identity, He called him muddha (fool) and asked him to surrender unto the feet of Goddess Katyayani who is none other than Durga. Realizing that it is Batuk who assumed the form of Shiva, Bhairava, he aggressively started fighting. Bhairava with His cosmic Trident beheaded the demon, ending his ruthless atrocity.

Goddess Sheetla is worshiped regionally or locally. One can see in her temples that she is projected with Jvarasura (the demon who causes fevers), Ghentu Debata, (the god of skin diseases), Raktabati (the goddess of blood infections), and Oladevi, a goddess of diseases like Cholera.

Why is Sheetala Ashtami celebrated?

Sheetla Ashtami is dedicated to Sheetla Mata and the fast or vrat is observed on this day to keep diseases away and stay protected. It also brings prosperity and blesses the devotees with good health.


Scroll Down to read more
Shop Now for Energized Products

Sheetala Ashtami | Basoda Puja and its Significance

The Tithi starts at 06:47 AM to 06:45 PM. It is the most auspicious puja timing. It is believed that Goddess Sheetala Devi cures diseases like Smallpox, Chickenpox, Measles, and the like. Families worship Her for the protection of their children against these diseases. In the state of Gujarat, the locals celebrate a similar festive day known as Sheetala Satam a day before Krishna Janmashtami. On this day, cooking gas is not used. People prepare food items on the previous day and have them on Sheetala Ashtami.

Particular Date & Day Time starts Time ends
Ashtami Tithi Mar 14, 2023 08:22 PM  
Basoda Puja Time March 14, 2023 06:30 AM 06:53 PM
Ashtami Tithi Mar 15, 2023   06:45 PM

BENEFITS OF BASODA PUJA:

  • The best cure for diseases like smallpox, poxes, sores, fever, and seasonal ailments
  • Protects against accidents, heat, and skin diseases
  • Drives away miseries and obstacles

How to Celebrate Sheetala Ashtami at Home: What to do?

  • Rise early in the morning and take bath with this mantra:
  • "Ganga Cha Yamuna Chaiva Godavari Saraswati,
    Narmada Sindhu Kaveri Jalesmin Sannidhim Kuru"

    "In this water, I invoke the presence of divine waters from the rivers Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Saraswati, Narmada, Sindhu, and Kaveri.”

  • After your bath, visit a Sheetala Devi temple.

Shitla Mata Ashtami Pooja Vidhi

  • In the case of no temple, you can worship Her at home by installing Her deity picture. One can also have a deity picture of Goddess Durga as Sheetala is an incarnation of Durga.
  • Light up an oil lamp, incense sticks, and focus on Her lotus feet. Offer Her Rabri or curd and recite Basoda Vrat Katha, Shri Sheetala Mata Chalisa, Sheetala Maa ki Arti, Shri Sheetala Mata ashtak, and the like.
  • Offer the food items that are prepared on the previous day to her.
  • Once the offering is made, distribute the food items as prasadam.
  • One can also use a Durga Pendant on this day for the protection of your home, office, or vehicle.
  • One may listen to Durga Prayers as it spiritualized the atmosphere on this day.

SHREE SHITALA MATA YANTRA

Energized with the Vedic mantras of Goddess Shitala, this Yantra protects against various diseases and bestows good health. The Shree Shitala Mata Yantra helps the devotees to gain strength to overcome life crises.

Related Testimonials
  • It has brought tremendous love and harmony in my family

    I would like to share some experiences with the group concerning my personal mala. I have only worn it for about 2 weeks but, I already see great success in areas of my life. My personal mala has 3 Gauri Shankar beads that lay across the back of the neck. I must say to you to trust completely in the power of these beads. It has brought tremendous love and harmony in my family within the short time I've worn these precious beads. There was a huge rift that existed between me and my children. It was so bad at one time that I went to an Astrologer to seek help. The astrologer told me after castin close

    - Lillian
  • I have had A LOT of positive results

    I am keeping a journal for each day. This is my 6th day. I\'ve had A LOT of positive results. After 45 days I will post my journal for members to see. I\'ve noticed influx of wealth, deep deep sleep (I do not remember any dreams), enemies run away or do not want to look at my face, attraction of opposite sex, minimal effort in tasks, focused mind, courage in risk taking activities (stocks), and the biggest one of all extreme focus on mantra of Vishnu, thoughts about Vishnu. Sometimes I am spending hours at a time looking at youtube.com videos of Vishnu. No wonder it is called Narayan Rudraksha close

    - GSK
  • Experiences with wearing the 19 mukhi

    Dear Ms. Neeta: I have taken time to write you my experiences with wearing the 19 mukhi rudraksha that you recommended to me in August. I hope this helps your research and other people. I have been wearing my 19 mukhi Rudraksa provided to me by Ms. Neeta Ji. I have been keeping close track of the transformation I have experienced by wearing this divine bead. I hope to give some understanding on the effects that I have personally felt. I am trying to describe the effects and feelings with humility and in no way am trying to gloat. First off I want to let you know about myself and how I was intr close

    - GSK, USA
  • I had a series of promotions from 2008 till date

    Dear Neetaji, I have been associated with Rudraksha-Ratna from 2006 onwards. It has been a journey of 5 years now and going strong. I started my divine Journey and accidently hit upon the Rudraksha-Ratna website. My professional life was fine but I in a way looked at it in a complicated way and latter realized that I was going through Ketu Maha Dasha and things would slow down gradually. Having said that, Neetaji and team recommended 10,11,12,13 Muki Rudraksha to help me progress . Within 48 to 60 hours I could feel the silence in my mind and the focus that I gained in my professional life and close

    - Deepak Mugrai, New York
  • Trijuti

    Dear Neetaji, Namaste. I wrote you recently that I would be sending payment soon for the Trijuti you had been holding. I am sorry for any delays, but last Friday, my Father passed away. I realize that I emailed you after that, trying to explain what benefits I have been getting form the 19 Muki, but I kind of fell short. I do think it fixed something with my heart as shown on an ECG machine. I also think that the mala as I wear it has increased my psychic awareness. I had a feeling my father death was coming. I also knew that there was nothing to stop it. I am now in mourning. I took of to tak close

    - Michael E
  • 19 Mukhi

    You had recommended for me to wear Kalpavriksha combination and Supreme Kavacham (both I am wearing since November). It took about 3 months for these beads to tune into my chakras, and they are making a profound difference in my thought process and daily life. Many people just won’t believe this if I were to tell them. close

    - Kinjal Patel
  • It is my pleasure to write a testimonial here

    Neeta, It is my pleasure to write a testimonial here. I am a Tibetan Buddhism follower in Hong Kong. I first came to know about Rudraksha when I saw many other people using 108 Rudraksha mala in Buddhist countries. I have been always advised by masters to use Rudraksha for chanting. I have heard the myth of Rudraksha, and have always been keen to get one. However, I don�t have confidence to purchase one as there are so many fakes on the market. It was until I came across the website of Rudra Centre that I start knowing more about Rudraksha, its properties and benefits. After discussion my si close

    - Eddie Chan
  • My First Divine Experience at Rudracentre Mumbai on Mahashivaratri

    Jai Gurudev and a Happy Monday, Rudra Puja, or Rudrabhisheka, which is one of the most ancient and profound rituals in the Indian subcontinent was performed yesterday at Rudracentre Mumbai by Neetaji. It was a puja, a worship, of the benevolent aspect of the consciousness called Shiva, or Rudra. For me, this first Puja which I witnessed by staying awake full night on Mahashivaratri was a spontaneous happening which was born out of the fullness and contentment of myself. It was an innocent playful process reciprocating the supreme love of nature. The state of mind with which the puja was perfor close

    - Pritish Nadkarni, Mumbai
  • You are a great gift to humanity

    Dear Dr, Thank you so much; You are a great gift to humanity.  The transformation in my business in the last one week was awesome;    may God bless you.  writes you soonest.    John C Lagos,  Nigeria.   close

    - John C
  • Excellence Service

    Hi Rudra Centre" i have Received my items parcel"send by DHL"Arrived on time Wow the Beads Bracelets are so Auspicious Looks wonderful nice packaging. Thank you so much to Mdm Neetha Singhal And her Rudra Centre personnels EXCELLENCE SERVICE"...   Tommascano close

    - Tommascano
  • lokeshsng@yahoo.co.in

    I have ordered couple of times. The service is great, timely and the shipments reach US major cities fast in very reasonable time. Keep up the great work. close

    - Lokesh
  • My mom, She feels a difference and feels very relaxed

    I want to thank you for making recommendations to my mom. She's been wearing the blue s ring, 7 mukhi with lakshmi pendant, and bracelet of 14 and 18 mukhi. She feels a difference and feels very relaxed.  She's very happy with all the items.   S Cynthia close

    - S Cynthia
  • Rudraksha

    The one mukhi rudraksha is exceptionally good for very focused meditation and it makes your meditation less effortful and easy. The mind finds it easy to go near the Spiritual Heart. Have bought 1,2,3....till 19 mukhi (except 18) from you Mrs Vijaya Barathi and Mrs Neeta. Planning for 18, 20 and 21 and make an indrakshi mala. Also add on blue, yellow sapphire, ruby, pearl, coral, amethyst and other 3 to 4 gems and make a perfect combo of rudraksha ratna and study my spiritual and material progress for next few years. thanks and your products are awesome. close

    - Prakash Raja
Rudra Centre Videos

View More

Recommended Articles
  • Angarki Chaturthi | Sankashti Chaturthi 2023
    What is the meaning of Sankashti or Angarki chaturthi? Sanakshti Chaturthi also
    Read More →

  • Sheetala Ashtami | Basoda Puja 2023
    What is Sheetala Ashtami? | Sheetala Ashtami 2023: Date, Tithi Timing Sheetla As
    Read More →

  • Bol Choth | Bahula Chaturthi | Bahula Chauth
    Bahula Chaturthi 2023: 03 September 2023 (Sunday), Puja Tithi Timing, Vrat Katha
    Read More →

  • Anant Chaturthi
    Anant Chaturthi 2023: Date and Time, Puja Vidhi, Vrat Katha and Significance Ana
    Read More →


× Search article

Send Enquiry

Verification Code: verification image, type it in the box



Product Related Enquiry/ Ask Expert:
phone +91-70211 80033 | Whatasapp
phone 022-62102919
email rrst@rudracentre.com
ADD/EDIT/KNOW YOUR ORDER STATUS:
contact@rudracentre.com
phone +91-88501 99897 | Whatasapp
phone 022- 62102909
Puja Services Enquiry:
phone / Whatasapp +91-93268 81243