No Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya Amid COVID-19

The much-awaited Amubachi Mela will not be celebrated this time keeping in view the increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases. The Kamakhya temple will see a deserted look this year during the Ambubachi which will start at 7:53 AM on June 22 and will end on June 25 at 8:16 PM.

The templedoors will be closed from June 22 to June 25 during the Ambubachi which is celebratedduring the annual menstrual cycle of Maa Kamakhya.

Unlike theother years, this year temple authority will not allow any visitors and pilgrimsto visit the temple during Ambubachi as the state along with the rest of thecountry is going through a tough period amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The decision has been taken by the 'Dolois' (priests) thatonly the rituals and prayers associated with the festival would be performed bythem.

The templeauthority will also not allow any sadhus to visit the temple or the nearbyareas to prevent the spread of coronavirus pandemic.

Addressing apress conference at the temple premises, the temple authority said that theroute from Kamakhya Gate to the temple will be closed so that no pilgrims couldgather in and around the temple premises.

It has alsobeen said that no NGOs or social organizations could set up temporary camps orbhandars for the people. "Only permanent pandas or priests will be allowedinside the temple premises," said the authority.

The temple reopens on the fifth day when devoteesthrong the place of worship to seek the blessings of the Goddess.

Theoccasion witnesses around 25 lakh footfalls from all over the country andabroad every year.

TheKamakhya temple was closed for devotees since March 20 due to the coronavirusoutbreak and the subsequent nationwide lockdown.