📅 Festival Details at a Glance
| Festival Name | Shitala Satam |
|---|---|
| Date | 3 September 2026 |
| Day | Thursday |
| Hindu Month | Bhadrapada |
| Tithi | Krishna Saptami |
| Deity | Goddess Shitala |
| Observed By | Women & families |
| Purpose | Protection from diseases |
📌 What is Shitala Satam?
Shitala Satam is a sacred Hindu observance dedicated to Goddess Shitala, the divine protector from infectious diseases, especially skin-related ailments. The word “Shitala” means cool or soothing, symbolizing relief from fever, heat, and illness.
This vrat is widely observed in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of North India, particularly by women for the health and safety of their children and family members.
🌸 Religious & Cultural Significance
Shitala Satam emphasizes:
- Healing and disease prevention
- Hygiene and cleanliness
- Cooling and calming energies
- Respect for nature’s balance
Devotees believe Goddess Shitala controls:
- Smallpox (historically)
- Fevers and infections
- Skin diseases and epidemics
🛕 Who is Goddess Shitala?
Goddess Shitala is depicted:
- Riding a donkey
- Carrying a broom and water pot
- Representing purification and healing
She is worshipped to remove:
- Physical illness
- Mental suffering
- Negative energies from the household
📜 Shitala Satam Vrat Katha (Legend)
According to legend, a woman once ignored the tradition of offering cold food to Goddess Shitala and cooked fresh meals on Shitala Satam. Angered, the goddess spread illness in the household. Realizing her mistake, the woman repented and observed the vrat sincerely. Pleased, Goddess Shitala cured the family and blessed them with good health.
The story teaches:
- Discipline and devotion
- Respect for traditional wisdom
- Importance of cooling foods during seasonal change
🕯️ Puja Vidhi (Step-by-Step)
Morning Rituals:
- Wake up early and take a bath.
- Clean the house and puja area.
- Wear clean clothes.
Puja Steps:
- Place an image or idol of Goddess Shitala.
- Offer cold food prepared the previous day.
- Light diya and incense.
- Offer water, flowers, and neem leaves.
- Recite Shitala Mata mantra or vrat katha.
- Pray for family’s health and protection.
🍽️ Food Rules & Offerings
On Shitala Satam:
- No cooking is done on the day of vrat.
- Cold food prepared earlier is consumed.
- Common offerings include:
- Bajra roti
- Curd
- Rice dishes
- Cold sweets
- Hot food and fire usage are strictly avoided.
These practices symbolize cooling the body and environment.
🌿 Health & Seasonal Beliefs
Traditionally, Shitala Satam falls during a seasonal transition when infections are more common. Avoiding hot food:
- Helps body cooling
- Encourages rest
- Reflects ancient health wisdom
Neem leaves used in puja are known for medicinal properties.
📌 Regional Names & Variations
Shitala Satam is also known as:
- Shitala Saptami
- Basoda (in some regions)
- Shitala Mata Vrat
Customs may vary regionally, but the essence remains the same.
❓ Short FAQ – Shitala Satam
Q1. When is Shitala Satam in 2026?
Shitala Satam will be observed on 3 September 2026 (Thursday).
Q2. Why is no food cooked on Shitala Satam?
To maintain cooling energy and honor Goddess Shitala, who represents calmness and healing.
Q3. Who should observe Shitala Satam vrat?
Women and families seeking protection from illness.
Q4. What foods are offered to Shitala Mata?
Cold food prepared a day earlier, curd, and simple dishes.
Q5. Is Shitala Satam related to health beliefs?
Yes, it reflects ancient preventive health practices.
Panchang Official