Ambuvaci, also known as Ameti in some parts of
Assam, is a ritual held at the
Kamakhya Temple in
Guwahati. This ritual, marking the menstrual cycle of the goddess, is held in the beginning of the Hindu month of Ashadha (June-July). It is believed that the
Goddess Kamakhya becomes impure during this particular period. The temple is closed for 3 days and devotees are not allowed into the temple.
Large numbers of devotees gather on the fourth day when the temple doors are opened. Mother Earth (Goddess Kamakhya) is believed to attain fertility on this occasion and bless the land with good crops. Only objects of red color, which signifies the menstrual flow, like red flowers and red vermillion are used for worship. Red clothes are distributed among the devotees as an offering by the God.
