By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: The annual Ambubachi Mela, one of the most significant religious gatherings in the country, commenced at the Kamakhya Temple on Nilachal Hills on Monday night with the beginning of the sacred rituals associated with the festival.
The ceremonial Pravritti ritual was performed at 9:08 pm, marking the start of the four-day observance. In keeping with centuries-old tradition, the temple doors have been closed for three days to symbolise the yearly menstruation period of Goddess Kamakhya, a revered representation of feminine energy, fertility and creation.
Thousands of devotees, saints, sadhus and pilgrims from different parts of India have already arrived in Guwahati to take part in the festival. Authorities estimate that more than eight lakh visitors will attend the mela over the coming days. Even before the official commencement, large crowds had gathered on Nilachal Hills, with devotees continuing to arrive from across the country.
The temple is expected to reopen on June 26 after the completion of the Nivritti rituals and other customary religious ceremonies. Following the reopening, devotees will be allowed to enter the shrine and receive the sacred Angodak and Angabastra, which hold special spiritual significance for followers.
To manage the massive influx of pilgrims, elaborate arrangements have been made by the Assam government, Kamrup (Metro) district administration and the temple management committee. Measures covering security, healthcare services, sanitation, accommodation and food distribution have been strengthened to ensure a smooth and safe experience for visitors.
Traffic movement around the temple area has also been regulated. Private vehicles have been restricted from proceeding beyond designated points near the foothills, while special parking and drop-off facilities have been created for pilgrims. Public transport services, including city buses, ASTC buses and private operators, have been deployed on dedicated routes to facilitate travel during the festival.
Officials have advised residents and travellers to expect traffic congestion in several parts of Guwahati between June 22 and June 26. Those travelling to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport have been urged to leave well in advance to avoid delays.
Recognised as one of Hinduism’s most sacred pilgrimage destinations and among the 51 Shakti Peethas, the Kamakhya Temple occupies a unique place in the spiritual landscape of India. The Ambubachi Mela, celebrated annually, commemorates the divine feminine and attracts devotees seeking blessings, spiritual fulfilment and participation in one of the region’s most revered religious traditions.