Kamakhya or Lingraj temple in which state?
VerifiedAnswer: Assam
Explanation:
The Kamakhya Temple is located in Assam, making this the correct answer to the question. This ancient temple stands majestically on the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, the largest city of Assam. It is one of India's most revered religious sites and holds immense significance in Hindu culture and tradition.
The Kamakhya Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, who represents the divine feminine power or Shakti. This temple is considered one of the most important Shakti Peethas in India - there are 51 such sacred sites where different parts of Goddess Sati's body are believed to have fallen. According to Hindu mythology, the yoni (reproductive organ) of Goddess Sati fell at this location, making it an extremely sacred site for devotees.
What makes this temple unique is that it doesn't house a traditional idol. Instead, there is a natural rock formation in the shape of a yoni, which is covered with a red silk cloth. A natural spring keeps this rock moist throughout the year, adding to the mystical atmosphere of the temple. The temple's architecture represents the typical Assamese style with a beehive-shaped dome.
It's worth noting that while the question mentions "Lingraj temple," there might be some confusion here. The famous Lingaraj Temple is actually located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, not Assam. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar, dating back to the 11th century. However, since the question asks about "Kamakhya or Lingraj temple" and specifically seeks one state as the answer, Assam is correct because it's home to the renowned Kamakhya Temple.
The Kamakhya Temple attracts millions of devotees every year, especially during the Ambubachi Mela, which is held annually in June. This four-day festival celebrates the yearly menstruation period of Goddess Kamakhya, during which the temple remains closed for three days. The festival draws pilgrims from across India and neighboring countries, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in Northeast India.
