Ambaji Badra Purnima

Bhadra Purnima is one of the biggest carnivals of Gujarat, commonly known as the Ambaji Bhadra Purnima. This is because the festival is fêted at Ambaji, a village which derives its name from the shrine located here. The village is located at the foothills of Mount Aravalli. Ambaji shrine is enthusiastic to Goddess Ambaji, held in great regard by the people of the region. It is the main shrine of the Goddess in Gujarat. The place finds reference in as early as 746 AD, but its actual origin is still unknown.

The most charming fact about the holy place is that there is no idol inside it. The divinity is represented in the form of a triangle, inscribed with figures and with the syllable 'Shree' in the center. This is called the Vishwa Yantra. This emphasizes the fact that the temple is very old, since idol worship became popular much later. It is also regarded as one of the inventive Shakti peeths. According to the scriptures, when the body of Goddess Amba was dismembering, her heart fell onto this place on the earth. Another belief regarding the place is that the tonsorial ceremony of Lord Krishna was held here.

This has added to the spiritual significance of Ambaji. The festival is prearranged on the full moon day of the Bhadrapad, according to the Hindi Calendar. A number of farmers and agriculturists bring together here to adoration at the shrine. Bhavai, the folk play of the state, and Garba performances are organized to celebrate the occasion.