Cult of Goddess Sitala in Bengal- An Enquiry into Folk Culture By Subrata Mukherjee

Growing up in a rural environment surrounded by majestic Sal and Mahua trees on the outskirts of Jhargram, I developed a deep passion for folk culture. For over a decade, I have been a prominent figure in Sitalamangal songs, actively engaging with numerous folk singers across West Bengal and neighboring states. This journey has connected me with many Sitala Priests and organizers, allowing me to hear vibrant stories and witness gatherings of people from all backgrounds—Brahmins to untouchables—coming together to celebrate a truly egalitarian society.

During Sitala worship, both Brahmin and non-Brahmin devotees, including the 'Dehuris', adhere to a blend of traditional Shastric rules and popular beliefs. The evenings are alive with the captivating 'Changu' and 'Panta' dances performed by the Sabars and Mundas, alongside Brahmin recitals of Sitalamangal lyrics. These diverse expressions of devotion to the same deity, Sitala, sparked my curiosity about this seemingly obscure cult.

Now that smallpox, once a devastating disease, has been eradicated, I ponder why the deity has not regained her former significance. This unanswered question motivated me to embark on an in-depth research journey into the origins and evolution of Goddess Sitala and her cult. To gather firsthand information, I have delved deeply into the history and development of this fascinating tradition.