Guwahati, 29th May: The sacred Ambubachi Mela, an annual celebration of the menstruation cycle of Goddess Kamakhya, will be held from June 22 to 26, 2022, at the Kamakhya Devalaya in Guwahati, Assam. This revered festival, steeped in ancient tradition and spirituality, draws devotees from far and wide to partake in the divine rituals and seek blessings for fertility and prosperity.
The temple management has announced the Mahayoga of Ambubachi Mela and has formed a special committee to oversee the fair, ensuring the smooth conduct of the event and the comfort of the devotees.
Ambubachi Mela holds immense significance in Hindu mythology, as it commemorates the annual menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya, the deity of motherhood, at the Kamakhya Temple, counted among the 52 Shakti Peethas. Unlike traditional idols, the object of veneration at this temple is a ‘Yoni’ shaped stone, symbolizing the divine feminine energy.
During the festival, the temple remains closed for three days, starting from the 7th day of the Hindu month of Ashadh, as the goddess undergoes her period of seclusion. The temple ceremonially reopens on the 12th day, marking the end of the seclusion period and initiating large-scale celebrations. Thousands of devotees throng to the temple, seeking blessings for fertility and prosperity from the goddess.
The term “Ambubachi” translates to “spoken with water,” signifying the onset of the monsoon rains, which are crucial for making the soil fertile. Rituals during the festival include a pause in regular worship, prohibition of agricultural activities such as plowing and sowing, and abstaining from cooking. On the fourth day, devotees purify dishes and clothing with water as part of the observances.
Cleansing ceremonies are a central aspect of the rituals, and entering the shrine post-rituals is considered highly auspicious. Devotees receive prasad in the forms of Angodak (sacred water) and Angabastra (sacred cloth), distributed to all attendees, symbolizing divine blessings and spiritual purification.
The Ambubachi Mela is not just a religious gathering but also a cultural extravaganza, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of Assam while fostering a sense of community and devotion among its participants.
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