Hundreds of women worshippers dressed in the traditional piliya (yellow/orange) attire were seen lined up at the temples of Shitala/Sheetala Mata today, to celebrate the auspicious occasion of Sheetla Saptami.

As per conventional approach, the day is generally observed on the seventh day of the Hindu month of Chaitra, but at many places it is celebrated on the eighth day of the month.

It is also believed strongly that due to an unfortunate incident that occurred in the Royal Family of Udaipur, the Sheetala Saptami is always conducted on the eight day, i.e. Ashtami. One can anyways observe the rituals both on the day of Saptmi as well as on Ashtami.

Various customs are performed on Saptmi (or Ashtami) during the Chaitra month and also during the Shravan month of the Hindu calendar.

Goddess Sheetala Mata is worshiped for the well-being of the family and to protect them from skin diseases. Prayers and rituals start early in the morning and continues till early afternoon.

Those who worship on this day, eat food prepared a day before because as per the custom, no one cooks food on this day. The traditional foods of the day are vegetables cooked using potatoes, ‘Auliya’ – a dish prepared with rice and curd, ‘Puri’ and ‘Kheer’.

The devotees also observe fast on this day and after the common prayers, women also do ‘Pathwari Puja’ by collecting seven pebbles. Some famous temples of Sheetala Mata in Udaipur are located at Mochiwada, Samorbagh, Ayad, etc.

On the occasion of Sheetala Asthami today, a colorful procession was carried out from The City Palace and ended at the Sheetala Mata Temple for customary rituals and worshipping, the day is known as Sheetala Asthami.

A procession clad with ornamented horses, traditional band and well uniformed security guards reached the temple. The procession started from Tripolia gate of the Palace.

This festival is celebrated with enthusiasm on the seventh and eighth day of the waning phase of moon in the month of Chaita in the city and is dedicated to Goddess Sheetala, the savior of children from chicken pox and measles. The food prepared on the previous day is eaten specially preparations made with curd and rice, locally called ‘Oliya’ is relished.

This will be followed by worshiping of Peepal on the 10^th day of the same fortnight, known as Dasha Mata.