Kamakhya or Kameshvari, as she is also known as the renowned goddess of Desire whose shrine is situated in the heart of the Nilachal Hills in Guwahati, Assam. This enchanting festival, also known as the "Mahakumbh of the East," holds a special place in the hearts of devotees and travellers alike. The temple on Kamakhya is first said to have been built by Kama Deva, the god of erotic love, desire and pleasure. Kamadeva dutifully built a temple with the help of Vishwakarma in honour of Sati on top of the Nilachal Hills. The present temple is said to have been built by Nara Narayana after it was destroyed in the early 16th century. The Legend dates back to the time when Daksha performed the Yagna with the desire to take revenge on Lord Shiva. Daksha invited all the deities to the yagna except Lord Shiva and Sati. The fact that she was not invited did not deter Sati from attending the yagna. Shiva eventually relented and Sati went to the yagna. Daksha insulted Shiva and Sati was unable to bear her father's insults towards her husband, so she immolated herself. Enraged at the insult and the injury, Shiva in his Vir-Bhadra avatar destroyed Daksha's yagna, picked up the remains of Sati's body, and performed the Tandav, the celestial dance of destruction. The other gods requested Vishnu to intervene to stop this destruction, towards which Vishnu used the Sudarshana Chakra, which cut through Sati's corpse. The various parts of the body fell at several spots all to through the Indian subcontinent and formed sites that are known as Shakti Peeths today. Several of these Holi Shakti Peeths have now become major places of pilgrimage, pulling in scores of devotees all year.
Out of one of the 51 Shakti Peeths and also among the four Ad Shakti Peeths, Kamakhya temple is special because the women vagina of Devi Sati fell here and thus, Devi Kamakhya is called the goddess of fertility or the "Bleeding Goddess". The Ambubachi Mela is one of the most important festivals across the country and one of the holi festivals of the Kamakhya Temple. it is believe that the presiding goddess of the temple, Devi Kamakhya, the mother Shakti goes to her annual cycle of menstruation during the time.
During the Ambubachi Mela, a unique ritual takes place, symbolizing the goddess Kamakhya's annual menstrual cycle. The temple doors are closed for three days, and it is believed that the goddess undergoes a period of rejuvenation and divine energy replenishment. This period is marked by strict observance of rituals and abstinence by the devotees.
As the temple doors reopen on the fourth day, a wave of joy and devotion washes over the gathering. The goddess is believed to have attained her full power, and devotees seek her divine blessings, showering her with offerings of flowers, sweets, and prayers. The vibrant energy and spiritual fervour that permeate the temple during this time create an atmosphere that transcends the physical realm, leaving an indelible mark on the souls of all present.
Beyond its spiritual significance, the Ambubachi Mela is a celebration of Assam's rich cultural heritage. It offers a platform for artists, artisans, and performers to showcase their talents. Folk dances, music recitals, and cultural performances enliven the festivities, creating a vibrant tapestry of art and devotion.
The Ambubachi Mela, also known as the Ambubachi Festival, typically starts on the 22nd of June and lasts for four days. However, please note that festival dates may vary slightly each year based on the Hindu lunar calendar. It is advisable to check the specific dates for the year you plan to visit to ensure accurate information.
We can conclude by saying that The Ambubachi Mela is not only a religious gathering but also a melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions. People from various backgrounds and walks of life come together, forging bonds of unity and harmony. It is a time for spiritual introspection, joyous celebration, and a deep connection to the divine.
