śrī śītalā devī aṣṭakam (śītalāṣṭakam)

The Shitala Ashtakam is a powerful devotional hymn dedicated to Goddess Shitala, an aspect of the Divine Mother who protects her devotees from diseases like smallpox and fever. Originating from the Skanda Purana, the stotra portrays the Goddess riding a donkey, adorned with a broom and a kalasha, symbolizing her ability to cleanse ailments and restore health. Chanting this hymn with devotion is believed to provide spiritual relief from physical suffering, remove the fear of epidemics, and grant protection to children, thereby ensuring the well-being and longevity of the entire family.