Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya Temple, Assam

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Context

• Devotees from across India gather at the Kamakhya temple in Guwahati for the annual Ambubachi Mela, commencing with the Pravritti ceremony.
• The temple's main door will remain closed for three days, reopening on June 26 after the Nivritti ceremony.

What is Ambubachi Mela?

• Ambubachi Mela is an annual Hindu fair held at Kamakhya Temple, celebrating the goddess Maa Kamakhya's menstrual cycle.
• It is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths in India, located atop Nilachal Hills in Assam.

Conclusion

• Ambubachi Mela holds cultural and religious significance, drawing devotees for its unique rituals and spiritual experience at Kamakhya Temple, contributing to the rich tapestry of India's religious heritage.

Kamakhya Temple

• Location: Nilachal hills, Guwahati, Assam
• Importance: One of the oldest centers of Tantric practices dedicated to goddess Kamakhya
• Annual Festival: Ambubachi Mela celebrates the menstruation of the goddess

Historical and Architectural Significance

• Age and Construction:
• Dates back to 8th-9th century, with subsequent rebuildings
• Represents a hybrid architecture known as Nilachal style
• Spiritual Significance:
• One of the oldest among the 51 pithas in the Shakta tradition
• Initially an obscure place, gained prominence during colonial rule

Evolution of Worship

• Phases of Worship:
• Yoni worship under Mlecchas
• Yogini worship under Palas
• Mahavidyas worship under Kochs
• Structural Layout:
• Main temple with aniconic yoni stone worship
• Surrounding temples dedicated to Mahavidyas: Kali, Tara, Tripura Sundari, etc.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Where is the Kamakhya Temple located? Nilachal hills Kaziranga hills Sivasagar hills Dibrugarh hills Answer: Nilachal hills Explanation: The Kamakhya Temple, dedicated to goddess Kamakhya, is situated on the Nilachal hills in Guwahati, Assam. It is renowned as one of the oldest centers of Tantric practices and is significant in the Shakta tradition.

SOURCE: LIVEMINT