This elegant sculpture depicts Shitala Devi, a revered figure in Hinduism, known for her powers associated with diseases and their cures. In her poised stance, she rides a donkey, a unique attribute associated with her. In one hand, she gracefully holds a short broom, signifying her power to both spread and alleviate ailments. In the other, she carries a pot, traditionally believed to either contain viral pustules representing disease or the cold water of immortality symbolizing her dual role as both a bringer and healer of sickness. The deity is typically depicted as a mother who defends children from paediatric ailments, such as exanthemata and smallpox. She also serves as a fertility goddess that assists women in finding good husbands and conceiving healthy sons.Sheetala is also summoned to ensure refreshing rainfall and the prevention of famines, droughts, and cattle diseases.
