Description

The Kamakhya temple, which is located on the Kamagiri hill, is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas related to Sati. It is believed by some to be an ancient Khasi sacrificial site.

Legends and Mythology

According to legends, Goddess Sati burned herself in the sacrificial fire at her father Daksha’s yagna, because her father insulted her husband, Lord Shiva. Enraged by Sati’s immolation, Shiva picked up the remains of Her body and began His dance of destruction (Tandava). The other Gods pleaded Lord Vishnu to intervene and prevent the destruction of the entire universe. Vishnu tried to pacify Lord Shiva. He started hacking Sati’s corpse with his Sreechakra (Disk). One by one the various parts fall off from Sati’s body until Shiva is left with nothing. Finally, the Lord stops his tandava and sits down to Mahatapasya (penance).

52 pieces of Sati are believed to have got scattered across the Indian subcontinent. Her genitals (yoni) are said to have fallen on the spot where the Kamkhya temple stands today.

The holy mountain is believed to be an embodiment of Lord Shiva himself, hence the name Neelachala parbat or the blue mountains.

Special attributes

A unique festival observed in the Kamakhya temple is the festival of Ambuvachi every year during the month of Shravana (June - July), wherein the Goddess is believed to undergo her menstrual periods. The temple is closed during the three days and opened with grand festivities on the fourth day.