No Longer a Fair: Ambubachi Now a Mahayog, Say Kamakhya Priests

In a significant shift aimed at restoring the spiritual sanctity of one of Northeast India's most revered religious events, the Kamakhya Temple authorities have officially replaced the term ‘Ambubachi Mela’ with ‘Ambubachi Mahayog’. The move is part of a conscious decision to refocus the centuries-old tradition on its deeply spiritual and tantric roots.

The decision was taken in consultation with the Assam Tourism Department and the district administration, who have jointly appealed to devotees, media, and the public to refer to the event as Ambubachi Mahayog going forward.

Why the Name Change?

Speaking to the media, the Doloi (chief priest) of Kamakhya Temple explained:

“We are trying to uphold the traditions as practiced by our ancestors. Ambubachi is not a mela in the usual sense, but a sacred seasonal observance. We want to ensure it retains its spiritual essence.”

He further added:

“This year, during our very first discussion with the government, we agreed to change the nomenclature from ‘mela’ to ‘mahayog’. The belief is that during this time, the Mother Goddess undergoes her annual menstruation — a powerful and sacred phase.”

Reclaiming the Sacred Spirit of Ambubachi

The term mela had, over the years, given the event a carnival-like identity, drawing massive footfall but often sidelining its spiritual significance. The temple authorities now hope to reclaim the festival’s original purpose — a period of tantric rituals, meditation, and spiritual awakening.

“Since 2016, the event gradually began resembling a fair more than a religious observance. From this year, we are making a conscious effort to return to its spiritual and tantric roots,” the Doloi said.

An Appeal to All

The Kamakhya Temple management has requested devotees, officials, and the media to respectfully refer to the event as ‘Ambubachi Mahayog’. This terminology better reflects the unique cultural and spiritual heritage of the Kamakhya shrine — one of the most sacred Shakti Peethas in India.

Also Read: Guwahati: Devotees Throng Kamakhya Temple on Day 2 of Ambubachi Mela