Ambubachi Mela, also known as the Ameti or Tantric fertility festival, is celebrated annually at the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam. This festival marks the yearly menstruation of the goddess Kamakhya, symbolising the Earth’s fertility. During this time, the temple remains closed for three days, as it is believed that the goddess undergoes her menstrual cycle. On the fourth day, the temple reopens, and devotees throng to receive the goddess’s blessings as per local tradition.
Gifting holds a special place in the celebration of Ambubachi Mela, symbolising the exchange of blessings and goodwill. As one of Assam’s most significant festivals, it attracts devotees and tourists alike, who partake in the tradition of giving.
The mela is not just a religious event but also a socio-cultural gathering where sadhus, tantrics, and pilgrims from across the country and beyond come together. The festival showcases a rich tapestry of Assamese culture, traditions, and spiritual practices in line with local customs.