Kamakhya Temple Assam – Powerful Sakthi Peedam of India

• Sakthi Peedam – According to legends, when Goddess Sati immolated herself, Lord Shiva carried her body in grief. Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra cut her body into 51 parts, which fell across the Indian subcontinent. The yoni (womb) of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen here, making Kamakhya one of the holiest Shakti Peethas. 

• Fertility & Creation Symbolism – Instead of an idol, the sanctum houses a naturally formed stone crevice in the shape of a yoni, kept covered with a red cloth and perpetually watered by an underground spring. It represents the source of life, fertility, and feminine energy. 

• Tantric Importance – Kamakhya is considered the epicenter of Tantra worship in India. It attracts saints, practitioners, and seekers of mystical knowledge, especially during the Ambubachi Mela. 

• The Kamakhya temple was rebuilt in the 8th–17th century by the Koch kings after its earlier structure was destroyed. 
• It follows the Nagara style with regional Assamese influences – characterized by a beehive-shaped dome, sculpted panels, and intricate carvings of deities.
• The main dome resembles a beehive or honeycomb and is surrounded by smaller domes and pavilions.
• The walls and panels depict scenes from Hindu mythology, sculpted figures of gods, goddesses, and animals.
• The temple complex houses 10 other temples dedicated to Mahavidyas such as Kali, Tara, Bhairavi, and Chinnamasta. 

Daily Rituals: 

• Morning rituals begin with offering the goddess the water of the spring that flows over the yoni.
• Devotees offer flowers, red cloth, coconut, and sindoor (vermilion) to the Goddess.
• Sacrificial offerings (mainly goats and pigeons) are made in traditional practice, symbolizing devotion and surrender. 

Special Rituals: 

• Tantric pujas and secret rituals performed by priests.
• Women often worship here for fertility, marital harmony, and blessings for children. 

• Ambubachi Mela (June/July) – The most important festival, also called the "Tantric Fertility Festival." It marks the Goddess’ annual menstrual cycle when the temple remains closed for three days. On the fourth day, it reopens with grand celebrations, attracting thousands of pilgrims and sadhus.

• Durga Puja – Celebrated with grandeur, the temple becomes vibrant with lights, rituals, and cultural festivities. 

• Manasha Puja – Worship of the serpent goddess Manasha, widely followed in Assam and Bengal. 

• Poush Mela – Held in winter, it draws devotees and cultural gatherings. 

• Unique Deity Representation – Unlike most temples, there is no idol of the Goddess. The yoni-shaped rock is worshipped as the central deity.
• Natural Spring – The underground spring keeps the sanctum moist throughout the year, symbolizing eternal fertility.
• Tantric Hub – Kamakhya is often referred to as the “seat of Tantra” and is a learning center for Tantric practices.
• Astrological Connection – Many devotees visit to remove obstacles in life, marriage, and fertility issues, and to perform tantric remedies.
• Nilachal Hill Location – The temple is located at a height of about 800 feet, offering panoramic views of the Brahmaputra River and Guwahati city.