Sheetala Sasthi, or Shitala Shasti, is the marriage function of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati observed in Sambalpur. In 2012, the date of Shitala Sasthi is May 27. The festival begins on the Jyeshta Shukla Panchami day. The most famous Shitala Sasthi yatra (Sital Shasthi Jatra) is held at Sambalpur in Orissa.
Symbolically, Lord Shiva represents the scorching heat of the summer and Goddess Parvati the first showers. It is believed that lavish wedding is for a good monsoon.
The first day of the festival is known as Shiva Bibaha or Siba Bibaha. Next is the famous Jatra or procession of the Gods.
In rural villages the festival is held like a real marriage. The arrival of Shiva for marriage and the procession of the two deities are a major event.
