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{{Infobox Mandir |
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|image = |
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|creator = King Nara |
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|proper_name = Kamakhya Temple |
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|date_built = 17th Century C.E. |
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|primary_deity = [[Kali]] |
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|architecture = [[Khasi]] |
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|location = [[Assam]] |
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The genitalia of the great Goddess Sati fell as an enraged Shiva danced the ''tandav'' (the dance of destruction) with his beloved wife's charred remains in his arms. The ''yoni'' is a revered symbol in the tradition of the tantra worship which is focused on the mother-Goddess figure.The temple itself reflects this fact in it's architecture which imitates the womb of a woman.{{fact}} |
The genitalia of the great Goddess Sati fell as an enraged Shiva danced the ''tandav'' (the dance of destruction) with his beloved wife's charred remains in his arms. The ''yoni'' is a revered symbol in the tradition of the tantra worship which is focused on the mother-Goddess figure.The temple itself reflects this fact in it's architecture which imitates the womb of a woman.{{fact}} |
Revision as of 22:28, 24 September 2006
The genitalia of the great Goddess Sati fell as an enraged Shiva danced the tandav (the dance of destruction) with his beloved wife's charred remains in his arms. The yoni is a revered symbol in the tradition of the tantra worship which is focused on the mother-Goddess figure.The temple itself reflects this fact in it's architecture which imitates the womb of a woman.[citation needed]
Description
This temple was destroyed in early 16th century by Muslim invaders, and then rebuilt in the 17th century by King Nara Narayana, of Cooch Bihar. Images of the builder and related inscriptions are seen in the temple.[1] However, its origins are much older. It is likely that it is an ancient Khasi sacrificial site, and worshipping here still includes sacrifices. Devotees come every morning with goats to offer to Shakti.[2]
The temple has a beehive-like shikhara. There are delightful sculptured panels and images of Ganesha and other Hindu gods and goddesses.[3] In a corner of the temple, there is a sculptored image of the Yoni, which is an object of reverence. A natural spring keeps the stone moist.
The Kalika Purana, an ancient work in Sanskrit describes Kamakhya as the yielder of all desires, the young bride of Shiva, and the giver of salvation.Shakti is known as Kamakhya.
Festivals
Being the centre for Tantra worship this temple attracts thousands of tantra devotees in an annual festival known as the Ambubashi.Another annual celebration is the Manasha Puja. Durga Puja is celebrated annually during Navaratri in the fall. It is a three day festival attracting several visitors.[4]
References
- ^ "Kamakhya". Retrieved 2006-09-12.
- ^ "Kamakhya temple". Retrieved 2006-09-12.
- ^ "Kamakhya temple". Retrieved 2006-09-12.
- ^ "Kamakhya Temple". Retrieved 2006-09-12.
External links