Sheetala Puja 2025: Date, Significance of Basoda Festival & Why Cold Food is Eaten

Basoda, also known as Basiaura, is observed on the Saptami and Ashtami of Krishna Paksha in the Chaitra month. This year, it will be celebrated on March 21 and 22, 2025. The festival is dedicated to Goddess Sheetala, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, and is associated with protection from seasonal illnesses.

Significance of Worshiping Goddess Sheetala

The Basoda festival marks the transition between winter and summer, a time when diseases like smallpox were historically prevalent. Worshiping Goddess Sheetala is believed to safeguard children and families from such ailments. As per tradition, devotees offer prayers to the deity, seeking her blessings for good health and well-being.

Why is Cold Food Eaten on Basoda?

During seasonal transitions, consuming hot food can be harsh on the digestive system. To adapt to the changing climate, a practice emerged where devotees consume cold and previously cooked food. This is believed to prevent heat-related illnesses and help the body adjust to rising temperatures.

Food Traditions of Basoda

Women prepare meals a day in advance, which is then consumed by the entire family on the day of Basoda Puja. The offerings to Goddess Sheetala include puri, kadhi, rice, vegetables, halwa, and sweet bhajiyas, all cooked the previous night. The festival is called Basoda due to this tradition of eating stale food.

Observing Sheetala Puja with devotion is believed to bring good health, protection from diseases, and overall prosperi