Sheetala Ashtami 2026: Sheetala Ashtami falls on the Ashtami tithi of the Krishna Paksha of the month of Chaitra. In this article, we will tell you about the date, auspicious muhurat and significance of the Sheetala Ashtami.
Significance of Sheetala Ashtami
In Hindu Dharm, Sheetala Ashtami is considered extremely auspicious because it is dedicated to Sheetala Mata. Sheetala Mata is especially considered the goddess of freedom from disease, child happiness, and prosperity. Observing a fast on this day brings relief from physical and mental suffering, and also brings peace and happiness to the family. The tradition of offering stale food, in particular, brings sweetness to family relationships and brings financial growth. Click here to read your daily horoscope.
This festival is specifically dedicated to Sheetala Mata, and on this day, there is a tradition of offering stale food such as sweet rice, halwa, and puris. Sheetala Ashtami, also known as 'Basoda', is celebrated to bring happiness, peace, prosperity, and health to the family. It is said that, on this day, families don't lit fire for cooking, where most of the people cook food one day before and consume the stale food on Sheetala Ashtami.
When is Sheetala Ashtami?
Sheetala Ashtami falls on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha of the Chaitra month. This year, the Ashtami tithi will begin at 01:54 AM on 11th March and end at 04:19 AM on 12th March, 2026. Therefore, Sheetala Ashtami will be celebrated on 11th March 2026. The auspicious timing for worshipping is from 06:36 AM to 06:27 PM on 11th March 2026.
It is believed in Hinduism that observing the Sheetala Ashtami fast helps remove all the troubles, suffering, and illnesses in one's life. This day is especially observed to attain child happiness, get rid of health issues, and attain wealth and prosperity.
Auspicious Muhurat on Sheetala Ashtami
Amrit Kalam: 12:08 PM to 01:55 PM
Nishita Muhurat: 12:06 AM, Mar 12 to 12:55 AM, Mar 12
Khushi RawatUpdated 05 Mar 2026 02:30 PM IST
