The Ambubachi Mela, an annual spiritual festival held at the Kamakhya Temple in Assam, celebrates the ritualistic menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya. The festival symbolizes fertility and womanhood, attracting a large number of devotees each year and serving as a platform to promote menstrual hygiene and break related taboos in society.
Why in News?
The Kamakhya Temple reopened to devotees on June 26, 2025, after the four-day Ambubachi Mahayog. The festival, observed from June 22 to June 25, symbolizes the goddess’s period, with the temple gates closed during this time. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma extended greetings, highlighting the event’s spiritual and social significance.
About Ambubachi Mela
- Held annually in June at Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam.
- Celebrates the menstrual cycle of Goddess Kamakhya, symbolizing fertility.
- Known as a “Mahakumbh of the East”, attracting devotees from across India.
- The temple is closed for 4 days during the goddess’s period, symbolizing rest and respect.
Cultural and Social Significance
- Celebration of womanhood and menstruation, promoting menstrual hygiene awareness.
- Less stigma about menstruation in Assam due to ritual acceptance like this.
- Linked with Tuloni Biya, a traditional Assamese ritual celebrating girls’ puberty.
Government Involvement
- CM Himanta Biswa Sarma extended greetings and prayers for the nation’s welfare.
- Large-scale arrangements and security ensured a smooth pilgrimage during the mela.
Kamakhya Temple’s Background
- Located on the Nilachal Hills, overlooking the Brahmaputra River.
- One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, symbolizing the yoni (female genitalia).
- Mythologically linked to Goddess Sati’s body parts falling on earth.
- Historical records date back to the Koch King Naranarayana’s reconstruction in 1565.
- Legend of demon king Narakasura and the temple’s curse on Koch royalty adds mysticism.
Summary/Static Details
- Why in the news? Ambubachi Mela
- Location: Kamakhya Temple, Nilachal Hills, Guwahati, Assam
- Observed Period: Annually in June (June 22–25 in 2025)
- Significance: Celebrates Goddess Kamakhya’s menstruation; promotes menstrual awareness
- Temple Status: During Mela Closed for 4 days during the goddess’s symbolic period
- Government Role: Security arrangements, CM greetings, cultural promotion
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Ambubachi Mela is an annual festival at Kamakhya Temple in Assam celebrating Goddess Kamakhya’s menstrual cycle.
- The festival symbolizes fertility, womanhood, and promotes menstrual hygiene awareness.
- Government officials like CM Himanta Biswa Sarma play a role in promoting and ensuring the smooth conduct of the event.
- Kamakhya Temple’s historical and mythological significance adds to the mystique surrounding the festival.
