Guwahati, June 22: The annual Ambubachi Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in Northeast India, commenced on Sunday at the ancient Kamakhya Temple atop Nilachal Hill in Assam’s capital city of Guwahati. The revered shrine is regarded as one of the most important Shakti Peethas in Hinduism and attracts devotees, saints, tantric practitioners and spiritual seekers from across the country.
Known locally as “Ameti” or “Amoti,” the Ambubachi Mela is closely associated with the belief that Goddess Kamakhya undergoes her annual menstruation cycle during this period. The festival is considered a unique confluence of faith, tantra, spirituality and ancient religious traditions.
The term “Ambubachi” is derived from two words—”Ambu,” meaning water, and “Bachi,” meaning flowing. The festival is observed during the month of Ashadha before the onset of the monsoon and symbolizes fertility, creation and the regenerative powers of nature.
This year’s Ambubachi Mela is being held from June 22 to June 26. As per temple traditions, the sanctum sanctorum of the Kamakhya Temple will remain closed to devotees from June 22 to June 25, as the period is believed to mark the Goddess’s annual menstrual cycle. During these days, devotees will not be permitted to enter the temple’s inner sanctum.
According to the temple authorities, the temple doors will reopen at 9:08 PM on June 25 following the completion of the prescribed rituals. Thereafter, devotees will be allowed to offer prayers and participate in special religious ceremonies.
Every year, the festival draws thousands of sadhus, saints, tantric practitioners and pilgrims from various parts of India. Apart from its religious significance, Ambubachi Mela is also viewed as a celebration of womanhood, fertility and the creative force of nature.
With the festival now underway, Guwahati is witnessing a steady influx of pilgrims, and authorities are expecting lakhs of devotees to visit the Kamakhya Temple over the coming days. Extensive arrangements have been made to ensure the smooth conduct of the event and facilitate the movement of visitors.
The Ambubachi Mela remains one of the most distinctive spiritual festivals in India, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural and religious traditions associated with Goddess Kamakhya and the sacred Nilachal Hill.
