While in many parts of India, silence, shame and restrictions are still seen regarding periods, in Assam it is worshipped with respect. During this fair, the menstrual state of the goddess is worshipped. If you want to go here, then let’s know about the fair held in the temple.
About the fair
Kamakhya Temple, located on Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Assam, is a very sacred and special place of Goddess Shakti and spiritual energy. The temple is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths and millions of devotees from all over the world come here for darshan. The biggest festival here is Ambubachi Mela, which is connected with a unique and old tradition related to the menstruation (periods) of Goddess Kamakhya. In the year 2025, this fair has started from 22 June, which will be celebrated till 26 June.
what is the religious significance
Ambubachi means “spoken by water”, the name signifies both monsoon and the goddess’ menstruation. The festival is celebrated as a symbol of Kamakhya Devi’s annual menstrual cycle. Its origin is linked to Tantric traditions and beliefs. It is believed that when Lord Shiva was performing Tandava, the vagina (womb) of Goddess Sati fell here. Hence, this place is considered a symbol of Shakti.
Earlier people used to stop work also
During this festival, people worship the goddess who protects things like fertility, menstruation. In earlier times, when this festival used to happen, work in the fields was also stopped. Ambubachi is not just a religious festival, it is also a way to understand and respect a natural process (like menstruation). It is believed that during this time, the power of the goddess rests inside the temple.
How long will it last and what are the rules
The Ambubachi Mela 2025 has started from June 22, which will continue till June 26. The fair has started on June 22 at 8:43 am with Snan (holy bath) and Nitya Puja. During these days, the temple is closed to all people, as it is believed that these days are of the mother’s menstrual period. This time is considered to symbolize the goddess’ rest, purification and respect for her natural cycle.
The doors of the temple are opened again at around 6 am on June 25, which indicates that the mother’s menstrual period is over and worship can resume. On this day, the temple is cleaned and devotees are allowed to visit again. After this, devotees visit the mother.
How can you reach here
These days, the atmosphere around Kamakhya temple is completely filled with devotion, chanting, incense sticks and traditional music. Devotees, saints, sages, tantriks and common people from the country and abroad gather here. Both men and women can participate in this event. To reach here, first come to Guwahati railway station or airport. The temple is about 8 km from the station, which can be easily reached by taxi, auto or local bus. There are stairs to climb the hill and vehicles also go to the temple by road.
