Sheetala Ashtami: dates, muhurat and meaning.
The next Sheetala Ashtami is on Monday, 29 March 2027. The date is computed from the classical panchang for Delhi (rule: classical festival table — tithi prevailing at local noon). Below are the Sheetala Ashtami dates for 2026 and 2027, the day's shubh muhurat windows, and what the festival celebrates.
Sheetala Ashtami dates
What is Sheetala Ashtami?
Sheetala Ashtami, called Basoda in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, comes eight days after Holi. The goddess rides a donkey and carries a broom, a winnowing fan and a pot of cool water.
The defining custom is stale-by-design: families cook the evening before and eat cold food on the day, offering it first to Sheetala Mata for the health of children.
Muhurat on Sheetala Ashtami
Worship is offered in the morning with the previous day's food. Use the day's Abhijit Muhurat for the puja; avoid Rahu Kaal for the offering.
| Window — 29 March 2027 | Time (IST) |
|---|---|
| Abhijit Muhurat (shubh for all works) | 12:02 PM – 12:51 PM |