Ambaji Bhadarvi Poonam Fair[edit | edit source]
The Ambaji Bhadarvi Poonam Fair is one of Gujarat's largest and most colourful religious gatherings. The fair is organised at one of the most ancient and revered temples in India, which is the temple of Goddess Ambaji, in the Ambaji village in Gujarat. The fair holds great significance, especially for farmers. The month of Bhadrapada marks the end of the long monsoon harvest period, and farmers come to the fair to pray for good and prosperous yields in the coming season.
Recently, the fair has become very popular, attracting lakhs of devotees from all over India and abroad. The temple conducts holy mantras, stotras, rituals, special pujas, and various other ceremonies. Cultural programs such as folk performances of Bhavai and Garba dance, among others, capture the full attention of the visitors.
Held in honour of Goddess Amba, it brings together thousands of pilgrims who travel by foot from different parts of the state. The fair blends devotion, chanting, cultural activities, and traditional rituals. Many devotees believe that visiting the Ambaji Temple on the full-moon day of Bhadarva fulfils their wishes, removes obstacles, and brings peace and prosperity.
Where does the Ambaji Bhadarvi Poonam Fair take place?[edit | edit source]
The fair is held at the Ambaji Temple, located in the Banaskantha district, Gujarat. The temple stands at the foothills of the Aravalli Range, close to the Gujarat–Rajasthan border. It is one of the fifty-one Shakti Peethas, believed to be the place where the heart of Goddess Sati fell, making it a highly sacred site for devotees of the Goddess.
When is the Ambaji Bhadarvi Poonam Fair held?[edit | edit source]
The fair takes place every year on the full-moon day (Poonam) of the Hindu month of Bhadarva (August–September). The celebrations begin a few days earlier, as thousands of devotees, known as ‘Pad Yatris’, walk long distances to reach the temple before the full moon.
Significance of the Ambaji Bhadarvi Poonam Fair[edit | edit source]
The Ambaji Bhadarvi Poonam Fair holds deep spiritual importance for devotees of Goddess Amba, also known as Arasuri Mata. People believe that the Goddess's divine energy is strongest on the day of the fair, which makes prayers especially powerful. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings for health, prosperity, safety, and fulfilling wishes. Many families consider this pilgrimage an important yearly ritual that strengthens faith and family unity.
The fair is also a symbol of devotion expressed through Pad Yatra, long journeys made on foot from cities such as Ahmedabad, Mehsana, and Palanpur. People see walking for days as an act of humility and gratitude towards the Goddess. Pilgrims chant devotional songs, carry flags, and travel in groups, creating a strong sense of community and shared belief.
The fair also showcases the rich traditions of Gujarat and Rajasthan. Folk music, devotional singing, traditional dances, and colourful lights fill the temple town. Markets selling prasad, religious items, handicrafts, and sweets add to its festive atmosphere. The fair provides a space where spirituality, culture, and regional identity come together, making it one of the most significant religious events in western India.
Rituals and Celebrations[edit | edit source]
The rituals at the Ambaji Bhadarvi Poonam Fair combine devotion, pilgrimage, and celebration. Each practice reflects deep faith in the Goddess and the belief that worship during this time brings special blessings. The temple town becomes vibrant with spiritual activities and traditional customs.
Pad Yatra[edit | edit source]
Thousands of devotees walk long distances to Ambaji Temple, believing the journey purifies the mind and strengthens devotion. Travelling in groups, they sing bhajans, carry flags, and stop at resting camps. The walk itself is considered an offering to the goddess.
Darshan and Aarti[edit | edit source]
On Bhadarvi Poonam, pilgrims queue for hours to have darshan of Goddess Amba. The temple holds special aartis with lamps, conch shells, and devotional chanting. Many offer coconut, prasad, and red chunari, seeking blessings for protection and prosperity.
Holy Light (Jyot) Viewing[edit | edit source]
Each evening, devotees gather on Gabbar Hill to witness the sacred Jyot (divine flame). This light is believed to represent the living presence of the Goddess. Watching the Jyot is considered extremely auspicious and is a highlight of the fair.
Cultural Programmes[edit | edit source]
During the fair, the temple town hosts folk dances such as Garba, bhajans, devotional music, traditional drama, and storytelling. These performances reflect the cultural heritage of Gujarat and Rajasthan. Pilgrims enjoy the programs after completing their rituals, which adds joy to the spiritual experience.
Free food and Sewa Camps[edit | edit source]
Government and community groups organise free food stalls, medical camps, and rest areas to support pilgrims.
Art and Craft Bazaar[edit | edit source]
Local artisans display and sell traditional crafts, jewellery, and textiles, creating a festive market atmosphere at the fair.
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