Seetla Mata, Punjab

[1] The cult of Seetla Mata belongs to prehistoric period and is linked to the Harrappa civilisation.

One of Seetla Mata's name is Basanti and therefore, she represents the negative side of Basant and is therefore worshiped.

[1] Seetla Mata and her sisters reside on the trees of the neem (Azdiracta indica), kikar (Acacia arabica) or jand (Prosopis specigera).

On the day of the fair, the devotees of Seetla Mata gather near the pond and scoop a portion of the earth to form a mound.

Donkeys are specially decorated for the occasion, with potters cladding them in attractive colorful blankets.

[7] Seetla Mata is worshiped in various parts of India, Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh.

Shitala is represented as a young maiden crowned with a winnowing-fan, riding an ass, holding a short broom (either to spread or dust off germs) and a pot full of pulses (the viruses) or cold water (a healing tool).