The historic and internationally acclaimed Ambubachi Mela 2026, widely known as the “Mahakumbh of the East,” commenced at the sacred Kamakhya Temple, situated atop the Nilachal Hills on Tuesday evening.
Organised through the coordinated efforts of the Government of Assam and the Kamakhya Temple Management Committee, the four-day spiritual festival commemorates the annual menstruation cycle of Goddess Kamakhya and symbolizes the divine power of fertility, creation and energy.
This year’s mela is expected to witness a significant increase in the number of devotees, saints, ascetics, and pilgrims. According to official estimates, the festival is likely to attract no fewer than 800,000 devotees, further enhancing the stature and global recognition of the Ambubachi Mela.
To ensure the convenience, safety, and smooth movement of devotees, the Assam Government has undertaken extensive preparations.
The Assam Tourism Department, in coordination with various government agencies, has completed all arrangements at an estimated cost of Rs 4.55 crore. Large temporary accommodation facilities have been established at the Old Jail premises, Boripara Playground, and Kamakhya Railway Station, with the capacity to accommodate more than 50,000 pilgrims.
In line with the directive of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, there will be no VIP or VVIP privileges during this year’s festival.
All devotees, irrespective of status, will have equal access to darshan through the common queue system, reflecting the government’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and equal opportunity.
Special emphasis has also been placed on cleanliness, sanitation, and public health.
Sources said that the temple trust and district administration have deployed more than 200 permanent sanitation workers, supplemented by over 100 additional personnel for the duration of the festival.
Bio-toilets, safe drinking water facilities, and essential healthcare services have been made available across various locations on Nilachal Hills to ensure that devotees can undertake their pilgrimage in a safe, hygienic and comfortable environment.
Devotees Throug Kamakhya Temple As 4-Day Ambubachi Mela Commences In Guwahati
