Ambaji Purnima Fair is an important festival of Gujarat. Ambaji is an important temple town which is visited and worshipped by millions of devotees every year. The village of Ambaji is blessed with the grace of the goddess Mata Amba or Ambica and is considered to be one of the 12 original Shakti Peethas, or shrines dedicated to her divine power. Every year during the full moon day this day is celebrated on a large scale with devotees flocking the temple from all over the country. The full moon of Bhadrapad is one of the four most important festival days of the year, when farmers and agriculturists come to Ambaji.
The original seat of Ambaji mata is on gabbar hilltop in the town. According to the ancient scriptures, the heart of the goddess Ambaji fell to earth when her body was dismembered. A triangular Vishwa Yatra, inscribed with figures and the syllable `Shree` in the centre, represents the deity.
Celebration of Ambaji Purnima Fair
During Bhadarvi Poonam during the month of September a Religious Fair is organized at Ambaji temple by Shri Arasuri Ambaji Mata Devasthan Trust, with the help of the whole District Administration. More than 17 to 20 lakhs of pedestrian pilgrims and tourists attend this Bhadarvi Fair of Ambaji every year.
Pilgrims from all regions in Gujarat visit Ambaji chanting their way `Bol mari Ambe, jai jai Ambe.` The Trishulia Ghat route towards Ambaji town is decorated with festoons, flags and colorful lights. All the roads that lead to the temple from different regions are seen with walking pilgrims, singing and chanting names of the goddess. Refreshment stalls and rest houses set up by donators on the way.
It is supposed that the Ambaji shrine does not have an idol; instead they take a darshan of a copper plate. The slot covered with the colorful costumes is actually Jantra`s plate carved with sacred figures. Godess Amba is worshipped here in the form of Jantra, which represents the omni presence of the Goddess.
In the evening, performances of Bhavai, the folk drama of the state is held and Garba dance are also organized. The devout attend readings of the Saptashati, the seven hundred verses in praise of the goddess and visit the temple for a worship of her. The celebration takes place on the day of Bhadrapadi Purnima. Dance drama performances of Gujarat add more charm to the magical atmosphere.
