4-day Ambubachi Mahayog begins amid safety measures, lower footfall
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Guwahati: Four-day Ambubachi Mahayog, one of Assam's most significant religious gatherings, started on Sunday at the Kamakhya Temple. As the temple doors closed at 2:56pm to mark the onset of the Goddess Kamakhya's annual menstrual seclusion, thousands of devotees and ascetics gathered across the temple complex and surrounding Nilachal Hills to seek her blessings.
Though the event usually attracts lakhs of pilgrims from states like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, and Bihar — with turnout exceeding 20 lakh in the last two years — authorities expect a lower footfall this year.
"We estimate around two lakh pilgrims have arrived so far," said head priest Kabindra Prasad Sarma. "However, attendance may drop this time, partly due to reduced visiting hours. Previously, darshan was allowed from 5am to 8pm, but this year it ends at 6pm."
Sarma also pointed to efforts to minimise overcrowding and maintain order as other factors behind the expected decline in numbers of visitors.
To ensure pilgrim safety, the district administration has shortened visiting hours, citing concerns over landslide risks in the Nilachal Hills. The newly constructed alternate route to the temple via Pandu College Road has also been closed after multiple landslides during recent heavy rainfall.
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Authorities are coordinating with Guwahati Police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to oversee the smooth and secure conduct of the event.
Despite the anticipated dip, preparations remain robust. Four major camps have been set up at Kamakhya Temple, Basistha Temple, Pandu Port, and Naharbari to host the pilgrims. Medical camps have been stationed along key foothill paths, while community kitchens in Pandu, Maligaon, and Adabari are offering free meals to devotees and visiting sadhus.
The temple gates will reopen at 3:19am on Thursday, marking the end of the Goddess's seclusion and the conclusion of the Ambubachi Mahayog.
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