Ambubachi Mela, also known as the Tantric fertility festival, is an annual Hindu gathering held at the Kamakhya Temple (one of 51 Shaktipeeths I have mentioned in the article, ‘Shatipeeth in Bangladesh‘) in Guwahati, Assam. This vibrant celebration takes place during the monsoon season, specifically in the Assamese month of Ahaar, around the middle of June. The festival holds deep significance as it revolves around the belief that the presiding goddess of the temple, Devi Kamakhya, undergoes her annual menstrual cycle during this time. This essay explores the unique aspects and spiritual essence of the Ambubachi Mela.

The Divine Menstruation

During Ambubachi Mela, devotees observe the yearly menstruation course of Devi Kamakhya. The temple remains closed for three days, symbolizing the customary seclusion women observe during their menstrual cycles. This sacred time allows the goddess to rest and renew her purity. The belief is that the creative and nurturing power of Mother Earth’s menses becomes accessible to the devotees during the monsoon season.

Tantric Fertility Festival

Ambubachi Mela is closely associated with the Tantric Shakti cult, which is prevalent in the eastern parts of India. Tantric Babas, who usually remain in seclusion throughout the year, make their public appearances during these four days. Some of these revered Babas showcase extraordinary psychic powers, captivating the attention of the pilgrims. Their presence adds a mystical element to the festival, highlighting the profound connection between fertility, spirituality, and the divine feminine.

Rituals and Observances

The mela encompasses various rituals and observances. For three days, devotees adhere to specific restrictions, refraining from activities such as cooking, performing puja or reading holy books, and engaging in farming. These restrictions symbolize the reverence given to the goddess’s menstrual cycle and mirror the traditional customs associated with women’s menstrual seclusion. After the three-day period, the goddess is bathed, and further rituals are performed to restore her purity. The temple doors are then reopened, and prasad, the divine offering, is distributed to the devotees.

The Sacred Prasad

Prasad, the blessed offering, holds a special place in the hearts of the devotees. During Ambubachi Mela, the prasad takes two forms: Angodak and Angabastra. Angodak signifies the fluid part of the goddess’s body and consists of water from the spring that flows over the yoni-like stone. Angabastra refers to the cloth used to cover the yoni rock fissure during the menstruation period. These prasads carry profound symbolism, representing the essence of the divine feminine and bestowing blessings upon the devotees.

The Gathering of Devotees

Ambubachi Mela attracts countless pilgrims from various parts of India and even abroad. The devotees include Sanyasins, black-clad Aghoras, the Khade-babas, Baul singing minstrels from West Bengal, intellectual and folk Tantriks, and Sadhus and Sadhvis with their distinctive appearances and practices. The festival serves as a unifying platform, transcending social and cultural boundaries, as devotees gather to seek the blessings of Devi Kamakhya and experience the spiritual energy that permeates the air.

Conclusion

Ambubachi Mela stands as a unique celebration that honors the sacred menstrual cycle of Devi Kamakhya, reflecting the deep-rooted reverence for the divine feminine in Hinduism. The festival’s association with Tantric practices and the extraordinary powers exhibited by revered Babas further add to its mystique.