Guwahati, August 22 (ANI): Devotees from various parts of the country thronged temple of Hindu goddess Kamakhya in Assam to witness three-day Hindu festival, Deodhani dance. The Deodhani dance festival is held to worship Hindu snake goddess Mansa, during which goats and pigeons are sacrificed. Deodhani dance is a semi-classical dance form, which is common across the southwest Kamrup and Mangaidoi parts of Assam. The devotees participating in the festival go through a month-long preparatory phase, during which they are not permitted to meet their families and have to stay in the temple premises with a photograph of the deity they want to represent. They also seek knowledge from their religious mentors during this period. It is believed that Hindu goddess possesses a devotee’s body during the festival to dance. As per Hindu mythology, one’s wishes come true if they wish for something special during the festival. It is believed that taking part in this festival bestows the dancers with powers from goddess Kamakhya. The temple situated atop Nilachal hills, is dedicated to goddess
Kamakhya, consort of Lord Shiva.
