The annual Ambubachi Mela has commenced at the revered Kamakhya Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, with the doors of the sanctum sanctorum closing for three nights to mark the fair at 8:43 am on Saturday. This mela celebrates the annual menstruation cycle of Goddess Maa Kamakhya.
The Assam Government and the Kamakhya Temple Management Committee have finalised all preparations for the festival, ensuring comprehensive security arrangements. Assam Tourism Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah confirmed the collaboration of numerous departments for the event, emphasising that there will be no VIP passes on June 26 and 27 when the temple doors reopen.
Kabindra Prasad Sarma-Doloi, the head priest, announced that the Ambubachi Mela’s Pravritti ceremony began at 8:45 am on June 22, followed by the temple’s closure for three days. The Nivritti ritual will be performed on June 26, after which the temple doors will reopen, and all rituals will resume. Sarma expressed optimism for increased attendance this year, expecting over 30 lakh devotees compared to 25 lakh last year.
Thousands of sadhus have already gathered at the temple, practicing tantra and enhancing their spiritual energy through dhyana. Devotees from various states including West Bengal, Gujarat, Odisha, and Bihar have arrived to partake in the fair.
A sadhu from Gujarat highlighted the temple’s ancient significance, stating, “Where there is Maa, there is everything. This peetha of Maa Kamakhya is the centre of creation.” He asserted on the Goddesses’ timeless presence on Nilachal Hill.
Another sadhu from West Bengal echoed the sentiment, calling Maa Kamakhya the ultimate truth of Sanatan Hindu culture and the hub of knowledge for saints throughout history. He noted the recent improvement in weather as a sign of Maa’s favour, adding, “It is the only destination where people can find a way in their life.”
With the Kamrup (Metro) district administration and temple authorities ensuring safety and security, the festival is set to welcome a massive influx of devotees, with the temple doors reopening after the completion of rituals on June 26.
