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, situated in the Ambaji village in Gujarat. The fair holds extreme significance specially among farmers as the month of the Bhadrapadaa, indicates the end of long monsoon harvest period and they come to pray for good and prosper yields ahead.
In recent years, the fair has become very popular attracting lakhs of devotees from all over India and abroad. Chanting holy mantras, stotras, rituals, special puja and other different ceremonies conducted inside the temple. Cultural programs like folk performances of Bhavai, Garba dance and many other cultural programs draw the full attention of the visitors.
Held in honour of Goddess Amba, it brings together thousands of pilgrims who travel on foot from different parts of the state. The fair blends devotion, chanting, cultural activities, and traditional rituals. For many devotees, visiting Ambaji Temple during the full-moon day of Bhadarva is believed to fulfil wishes, remove obstacles, and bring peace and prosperity.
Where is the Ambaji Bhadarvi Poonam Fair Held?[edit | edit source]
The fair is held at the Ambaji Temple, located in Banaskantha district, Gujarat. The temple stands at the foothills of the Aravalli Range, close to the Gujarat–Rajasthan border. It is one of the 51 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. The fair marks the day when the Goddess’s divine energy is believed to be at its strongest, making prayers especially powerful. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings for health, prosperity, safety, and fulfilment of 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. Walking for days is seen 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 dance, 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 seen as 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, and devotional music, traditional drama, and storytelling. These performances reflect the cultural heritage of Gujarat and Rajasthan. Pilgrims enjoy the programmes after completing their rituals, adding joy to the spiritual experience.
Free food and Sewa Camps[edit | edit source]
Free food stalls, medical camps, and resting areas are organised by government and community groups to support pilgrims.
Art and Craft Bazaar[edit | edit source]
Local artisans display and sell traditional handicrafts, jewellery, and textiles, adding a festive market atmosphere to the fair.
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