Shashthi (षष्ठी देवी)

Shashthi is revered as a goddess associated with childbirth, fertility and the protection of children in several regional traditions. Themes of childbirth, infant protection, fertility and family continuity are central to the way devotees, storytellers and temple traditions understand this figure. Recognisable attributes can include mother-and-child imagery, cat mount in some traditions and household ritual settings. Readers may also know the deity by names such as Shashti Mata. Interpretations are not identical across India, and older texts, regional traditions and modern devotional practice may emphasise different aspects. A strong reference entry should therefore present the main tradition first, label regional variants clearly, and connect the mythology to symbols, festivals, temples and respectful worship practices that readers are likely to search for today.