🪔 About Sheetala Saptami

This auspicious day is dedicated to the worship of Devi Sheetala; devotees pray to her for good health, peace, and protection.

Basoda Festival is celebrated the day following Sheetala Saptami. On this day, people do not light a fire for cooking. Therefore, most families prepare food a day in advance, and on Sheetala Ashtami, they partake of that previously cooked (stale) food.

It is believed that Ma Sheetala protects devotees from diseases, such as smallpox, measles, and other ailments. People seek her protection and healing from such afflictions.

On this sacred occasion, invoke the protective energy of Ma Durga through sincere worship and devotion.

🙏 How to Do Pooja

Recommended Ritual: Abhishekam of Ma Durga with Devi Kavacham (10 min.)

  1. Wake up early and take a bath.
  2. Clean your home and puja space thoroughly.
  3. Perform the recommended ritual with devotion.
  4. Offer flowers, fruits, and incense.
  5. Chant mantras or prayers specific to this occasion.
  6. Conclude with aarti and distribute prasad.

✅ Do's & Don'ts

✅ Do's

  • Clean your puja space and important areas of your home.
  • Decorate with flowers, lamps, and simple rangoli if possible.
  • Perform nitya puja, yajna, or abhishek of the deity associated with this festival.
  • Share prasad with family, friends, and those in need.
  • Maintain respectful and gentle behavior toward people and animals.

⚠️ Don'ts

  • Avoid eating heavy, oily food and excessive sweets.
  • Avoid alcohol, rash driving, and loud celebrations.
  • Minimize waste; don't harm animals and the environment.