The Ambubachi Mela, also known as the “Mahakumbh of the East,” is a grand and vibrant festival celebrated annually at the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam. This unique festival is dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, symbolizing the annual menstruation cycle of the goddess. The event attracts thousands of devotees, sadhus, and tourists from all across the world seeking spiritual blessings and experiencing the mystic energy of the occasion.
In 2024, the Ambubachi Mela begins today, marking a significant time of divine celebration and devotion.
Significance and Mythology
The Sacred Feminine
The Ambubachi Mela is deeply rooted in the worship of the divine feminine. According to Hindu mythology, the goddess Kamakhya represents the essence of womanhood and fertility. The festival marks the time when the goddess undergoes her annual menstruation, symbolizing the fertility and regenerative power of nature.
Mythological Origins
As per legend, the goddess Kamakhya is an incarnation of Shakti, and the Kamakhya Temple is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. It is said that the yoni (genital organ) of the goddess Sati fell at this site, making it a powerful and revered place of worship. The Skanda Purana states:
“योनि क्षेत्रं ततः पृष्ठं देवी कामाख्या नामतः।”
Yoni kṣetraṁ tataḥ pṛṣṭhaṁ devī kāmākhyā nāmataḥ.
(“The place where the yoni of the goddess fell is known as Kamakhya.”)
Celebrations and Rituals
Opening and Closing Dates in 2024
The Ambubachi Mela in 2024 begins on June 22nd and concludes on June 25th. The temple remains closed for the first three days of the festival, symbolizing the period of the goddess’s menstruation. On the fourth day, the temple doors are opened, marking the resumption of normal rituals and allowing devotees to seek the blessings of the goddess.
Here is a table with the key dates and local times for the Ambubachi Mela in 2024, as observed in Guwahati:
| Event | Date | Time (Local Time – Guwahati) |
|---|---|---|
| Mela Begins | June 22, 2024 | 6:00 AM |
| First Day of Closure | June 22, 2024 | All Day |
| Second Day of Closure | June 23, 2024 | All Day |
| Third Day of Closure | June 24, 2024 | All Day |
| Temple Reopens | June 25, 2024 | 9:08 PM |
This table provides the local times for significant events during the Ambubachi Mela in 2024 in Guwahati.
“NO VIP PASSES WILL BE PROVIDED TO ANYONE IRRESPECTIVE OF ANYTHING”
– By Order
Ritualistic Observances
During the first three days, various rituals and ceremonies are conducted outside the temple premises. Devotees observe fasts and participate in discourses, meditation sessions, and devotional singing. On the final day, a grand celebration ensues as the temple doors open, with devotees offering flowers, fruits, and other sacred items to the goddess.
Sadhus and Babas: Spiritual Pilgrims
A significant feature of the Ambubachi Mela is the presence of sadhus and babas from various parts of India. These holy men, often clad in saffron robes and adorned with ashes and rudraksha beads, add to the spiritual aura of the festival. Notable among them are the Aghori sadhus, known for their austere practices and deep spiritual insights. Their presence is a major draw for devotees seeking spiritual guidance and blessings.
Prominent Visitors: Celebrities and Politicians
Celebrity Devotees
Over the years, the Ambubachi Mela has attracted numerous celebrities who visit the Kamakhya Temple to seek blessings. Bollywood actors such as Anushka Sharma and Priyanka Chopra have been known to visit the temple, adding a touch of glamour to the spiritual proceedings. Their presence not only draws media attention but also highlights the cultural significance of the festival.
Political Dignitaries
The Ambubachi Mela also sees visits from prominent political figures. Assam’s Chief Minister and other state officials often participate in the rituals, emphasizing the importance of the festival in the region’s cultural and spiritual landscape. In the past, national leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi have also acknowledged the festival, praising its unique blend of spirituality and cultural heritage.
Spiritual Significance and Impact
A Hub of Tantric Practices
The Kamakhya Temple is renowned for its association with tantric practices. The Ambubachi Mela, in particular, is a focal point for tantra practitioners who gather to perform rituals and seek esoteric knowledge. The temple’s mystical atmosphere during the mela is believed to be highly conducive to spiritual practices, attracting yogis and spiritual seekers from far and wide.
Blessings and Boons
Devotees firmly believe that attending the Ambubachi Mela and seeking the blessings of the goddess Kamakhya can bestow them with fertility, prosperity, and spiritual awakening. The festival is especially significant for women, who pray for fertility and marital bliss. The following sloka from the Devi Mahatmya encapsulates the essence of the goddess’s blessings:
“सर्वमङ्गलमाङ्गल्ये शिवे सर्वार्थसाधिके। शरण्ये त्र्यम्बके गौरि नारायणि नमोऽस्तु ते।”
Sarvamangalamangalye shive sarvarthasadhike. Sharanye tryambake gauri narayani namo’stu te.
(“O Auspicious One, who brings auspiciousness to all, the fulfiller of all desires, I take refuge in You, O three-eyed Gauri, O Narayani, I bow to You.”)
Practical Information for Visitors
Reaching Kamakhya Temple
Kamakhya Temple is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, which is about 20 kilometers from the temple. Guwahati Railway Station is also conveniently located, providing easy access for pilgrims traveling by train.
Accommodation and Facilities
During the Ambubachi Mela, the Assam Tourism Department and various other organizations set up temporary accommodations for pilgrims. These include tents, community halls, and guest houses. It is advisable to book accommodations in advance due to the high influx of visitors during the festival.
Safety and Precautions
Given the large crowds that gather for the Ambubachi Mela, visitors are advised to take necessary precautions. Staying hydrated, wearing comfortable clothing, and being mindful of personal belongings are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Medical facilities and help desks are set up by the authorities to assist pilgrims.
Conclusion: A Festival of Faith and Fervor
The Ambubachi Mela is not just a festival; it is a profound spiritual experience that connects devotees with the divine feminine. The vibrant celebrations, the gathering of sadhus and spiritual seekers, and the influx of celebrities and political figures all contribute to the festival’s unique charm and significance. As the Kamakhya Temple doors open once again this year, devotees from all walks of life come together to celebrate the goddess Kamakhya, seeking her blessings and immersing themselves in the divine energy that pervades the sacred site.
