New Delhi: Navratri is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across the country. During this celebration, nine forms of Shakti are worshipped over nine days. Devotees flock to the Shaktipeeths to offer prayers to the Goddess. Among all the Shaktipeeths in the country, the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam, holds a special significance. It is one of the 51 revered Shaktipeeths. A unique tradition is followed at the Kamakhya Temple. Devotees here offer prayers to the Goddess without a physical idol. During Navratri, a large number of devotees come here to seek the Goddess's blessings. It is believed that any wish made here is fulfilled. Importance of the Kamakhya Temple According to mythological beliefs, when Lord Shiva wandered the universe mourning the body of his wife Sati, Lord Vishnu dismembered her body with his Sudarshan Chakra. Wherever Sati's body parts fell, Shaktipeeths were established. It is said that Goddess Sati's vagina fell on Mount Kamakhya. This is why this temple is considered a symbol of power and creative energy. The goddess is worshipped here as "Kamakhya" or "Kamarupa." It is believed that all the wishes of devotees who visit here are fulfilled. What is the history of the Kamakhya Temple? It is believed that this temple was built by Kamadeva with the help of Vishwakarma, and it used to be much larger than it is now. It is said that the architecture of this temple was so beautiful that it is incomparable. However, the history of this temple is intertwined with many legends. It is also believed that this temple was built before the Aryans. Then, as the number of Shaivite followers increased, the temple's importance declined. It regained its prominence during the reign of King Naraka. However, the temple's history before the 16th century is unclear. Specialities and Unique Traditions The Kamakhya Temple is also renowned for its unique traditions. There is no idol of the goddess, but rather a natural yoni kund (a sacred yoni kund) in the sanctum sanctorum, which is irrigated by a stream of water. Devotees worship this as the embodiment of Kamakhya Devi, the embodiment of Shakti. Tantra practices are also practiced at this temple. In addition to the Kamakhya Devi temple, there are also temples dedicated to the ten Mahavidyas (great goddesses), representing the ten forms of the goddess. Every year, the Ambubachi fair is held here, known throughout the country. This fair marks the goddess's annual menstrual cycle. The temple remains closed for three days, and on the fourth day, a huge crowd gathers to see the goddess. During this time, millions of devotees from India and abroad visit the temple. Temple Architecture Furthermore, the temple's architecture is also unique. Located on Nilachal Hill, this temple reflects the medieval North-Eastern style. The red-colored dome structure, carved sculptures, and the serene atmosphere of the temple complex evoke a sense of spirituality. Kamakhya Temple is located on Nilachal Hill, just 8 kilometers from Guwahati, the capital of Assam.
