The Sheetla Mata Fair takes place in the month of March-April (Chaitra on Krishna Paksh). This year it is scheduled for March15, 2012. The word 'Sheetla' is derived from sheetal which means calm and composed. The fair is held in Seel-Ki-Doongri village in Jaipur. It lasts for only 24 hours in which pilgrims visit to pay homage to Sheetla Mata.
It is believed that if due to any reason, Sheetla Mata, the goddess of epidemics loses her temper then the area is expected to be affected by dangerous epidemics. That’s why, the fair is organized to keep her mood cheerful and offerings of different type of fruits, sweets and cash is placed at the feet of Sheetla Mata. A beautiful red stone placed inside the temple is an embodiment of the deity. People who come to attend the fair are supposed to take food only after visiting the sacred shrine of Sheetla Mata.
In this fair, the cattle fair also occur simultaneously. Due to plethora of colorful activities happening in the fair, the atmosphere becomes truly joyful. Cattle breeders decorate their animals beautifully and take them to the fair. Finally the best breeder is awarded with a prize.
People from all across rural Rajasthan grace the occasion with their presence. They are uniquely dressed and accompanied with their horses and bullock carts. During this one-day fair, a small market is set up from where one can buy various shoes, clothes, foodstuff, utensils and agricultural implements.
