Harmony Of Divine Feminine, Ferociousness: Exploring Tāntra Rituals Practice & Daśamahāvidyas at the Kāmākhyā Temple in Nilāchal, Assam

Abstract

Assam, celebrated for its verdant tea plantations and the formidable Brahmaputra River, is the location of Nilāchal or Kāmagiri Hill in the Western part of Guwahati, the city known as “the gateway of North-East India”. Nilāchal is a Sanskrit term: नीलाचल means- ‘Blue Mountain’. Nilāchal is divided into three parts- the Brahma Parvat, the Vishnu Parvat, and the Śiva Parvat, a site of considerable archaeological and spiritual importance. The temple is dedicated to the mother goddess Kāmākhyā, who represents the essence of Śakti and is recognized as one of the 51 sacred Śakti Peethas. This temple is a crucial pilgrimage destination, particularly for adherents of the Sākta tradition, which honors the divine feminine. In addition to its religious significance, the hill is closely linked to the practices of Tāntra. Tāntra is characterized not as a religion but as a adhus (practice) that utilizes rituals to channel cosmic energies for spiritual advancement. The relationship between Nilāchala Hill and Tāntra provides a distinctive lens through which to view Assam’s cultural legacy. The temple acts as a central hub for Tāntra puja, which encompasses sacred rituals and mantras intended to invoke the Daśamahāvidyas divine power. These rituals are thought to confer various blessings, such as love, fertility, prosperity, and enlightenment. Investigating this intersection of spirituality and culture unveils a rich tapestry of beliefs that have influenced the temple’s identity and underscores the lasting impact of Tāntra on Assam’s spiritual heritage. This research study focuses on the Kāmākhyā temple and the associated Daśamahāvidyas Tāntra rituals and rites that have been practiced since ancient times. Through an ethnoarchaeological survey, the study aims to document specific adhus rituals and ceremonies conducted within the Kāmākhyā temple, detailing their procedures, significance, and the role of animal sacrifice in Tāntra worship. The analysis seeks to contextualize the historical background of the Kāmākhyā temple and explore the integration of Śakti Peeth with adhus practices. Additionally, the research will document the folklore associated with the temple complex during special occasions. It will also examine the social and communal impacts of adhus rituals at the temple, particularly their influence on local beliefs and practices. The methodology employed in this research includes extensive fieldwork in Nilāchal and its surrounding areas to gain insights into the adhus rituals performed by priests, as well as observations of those engaging in Nimna Tantra (Black Magic) at night. The study incorporates detailed photography and ethnographic documentation, which involves attending ceremonies, interviewing temple priests, and interacting with devotees and adhus to capture their perspectives and experiences.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.46700/asssr/2024/v6/i2/2024120602008