Foreign tourists revel in Ambubachi preparations

GUWAHATI: For Daniel Evin, a young graduate from University of Sydney, watching the grand preparations ahead of Ambubachi Mela at Kamakhya Shakti Peeth is once in a lifetime experience.
Overwhelmed with the colourful atmosphere and the not-so-familiar surroundings, Daniel like most other foreign tourists is getting a rare opportunity to witness the mega event from very close quarters.
"It has been an amazing experience so far. Never in my life have I seen so many people gather at one place for such a long time. I am told that in a day or two the crowd is going to multiply by leaps and bounds. The frenzy of activities will get even more intense," said Daniel, who has been learning a lot about Indian culture and Hinduism.
"Any how I have to leave for Delhi tonight as I have already spent a few days in Meghalaya and in Guwahati. I have plans to travel across the country. But yes, what I am taking back from here is a very special experience," he added.
On the other hand, Alice Sumoto from Japan is visiting the city with some Indian friends. She believes this is an unique event where so many people from different places and backgrounds are drawn by the same power and faith.
"I haven't entered the temple and am not sure if I will. But I know the deity is immensely powerful and the festival has a strong reason behind it," said Alice. "I don't know much about Hindu mythology. But I'm planning to carry back some books on it before leaving India," she added.
The red and saffron brigade scattered across the city streets and markets is also a reminder to the people that the Ambubachi festival is just round the corner. The event is growing popular with each passing year and the number of adventurous pilgrims have also increased.
"Earlier the sadhus only lazed around on temple premises or at Nilachal Hills. Since this time most of them have arrived a little ahead of the festival, they have more time to visit other tourist spots and popular markets," said Amit Boro, a vendor who sells garments in Paltan Bazaar area.
"We like looking around and visiting different places in the city. After coming all the way from home it is natural to go shopping or sightseeing. There is no need for anybody to feel hassled by us," said a sadhu from Allahbad.