Amma's Vision and Mission

Amma's Vision and Mission

"Seeing nothing as apart from my own Self, A single unity, and merging in the Divine Mother,
I renounced all sense of enjoyment. Mother told me to ask the people To fulfil their human birth. Therefore, I proclaim to the whole world The sublime truth that She uttered,' Oh man, merge in your Self!'" - amma

Amma's mystical poem Ananda Veethi describes Her transcendental experience of attaining union with the Divine (listen). "Seeing nothing as apart from my own Self "— this was Amma's vision, that everything in creation was part of Her own Self. At that time the Divine Mother also imparted to Her a mission— to ask the people to fulfil their human birth through the message "Oh man, merge in your Self!"

This message lies at the heart of all of Amma's institutions and charitable activities. Amma's children manage Her projects with the faith that they will be transformed through their service to the world, gradually transcending their personal likes and dislikes and becoming more compassionate and selfless; more closely identified with the Universal Self, the Atman.
Amma has never sought to convert anyone; Hers is not a sectarian mission. But Amma has always stressed that along with a new home, a pension, an operation or a meal, the beneficiaries of Her charitable projects receive a compassionate smile and a kind word from those who serve them. In this way those who give, those who receive, and those who look on—all are transformed by the selfless love and sense of universal kinship, blossoming in an experience of essential unity amid apparent diversity—the oneness in the Self.

Amma's words

Amma's divine words............

"Don't feel bad if anyone speaks ill of you. You have to think that this, too, is for the best"
-amma

"If you are unable to meditate, try to repeat your mantra of sing bhajans"
- amma

"We should never forget that after every night, there is dawn. We should never loose optimistic faith"
-amma

In Amma's foot steps !!! Jai Ma!

Light

The Light in our time AMMA
May Amma's light bless us all

AMMA the worlds greatest miracle

Amma is the worlds greatest miracle. Everything about Amma is perfect, She is a Mother to millions, a master to millions, an inspiration to millions and a friend to millions. Amma loves all and serves all in the literal meaning of the words. Her entire life is for her children. to whom is the worlds most prescious treasure. The amazing thing is there is no one in the universe that Amma doesn't love, infact she is like a love machine. When a man tried to attack Amma a few days ago, I don't think that he realized that his target was someone who is beyond life and death. Amma is the most incredible person on the planet, in fact she isn't even a person, she unconditional love embodied. No matter what anyone does to Amma she still loves them. As a result Amma has many many devotees around the globe and also just many souls how regard her as someone special and unique even if they have other gurus, because, there is nothing to deny , there is no one else like Amma, She is unique. May more and more people meet Amma everyday and may those ones who don't understand Amma's love be eventually transformed and merge with Amma.....Jai Amma Ma!!

Ananda Veethi

Ananda Veethi
***Amma sings about Her experience in the mystical song, 'Ananda Veethi', The Path of Bliss.

Once upon a time, my soul was dancing In delight through the path of Bliss. At that time, all the inner foes, such as Attraction and aversion ran away, Hiding themselves in the innermost recesses of my mind.

Forgetting myself, I merged in a golden dream, Which arose within Me. As noble aspirations Clearly manifested themselves in my mind, The Divine Mother, with bright gentle handsCaressed my head. With bowed head, I told Mother that my life was dedicated to Her
Smiling, She became a Divine Effulgence And merged in Me. My mind blossomed, Bathed in the many-hued light of divinity. The events of millions of years gone by Rose up within me. Thenceforth, Seeing nothing as apart from my own Self, A single unity, and merging in the Divine Mother, I renounced all sense of enjoyment
Mother told me to ask the people To fulfil their human birth. Therefore, I proclaim to the whole world The sublime truth that She uttered, "Oh Man, merge in your Self!"
Thousands and thousands of yogis Have taken birth in India, and Lived the principles visualized by the Great sages of the unknown past. To remove the sorrow of humanity, How many naked truths are there!

Today I tremble with bliss, Recollecting Mother's words, "Oh, my darling, come to Me leaving all other works. You are always mine."
O Pure Consciousness, O Embodiment of truth, I will heed Your words. O Mother why are you late in coming? Why did you give this birth? I know nothing, O Mother, Please forgive my mistakes.

[It was the moment of eternal bliss (Ananda) ; the moment of Her realization of the Universal Mother. From that moment onwards, Sudhamani became 'Amritanandamayi' (one who is full, filled with eternal bliss). When She was Sudhamani, She was full of ecstasy. She was lost in Herself. But when She had the realization of the Divine Mother, She became 'Amrita', the divine nectar that bestows eternity. She began to flow out of Herself for the benefit of mankind, in the form of Love and Compassion ]

Goddess Amriteswari

Jai Ma, Jai Amriteswari Ma

Jai Amma who is the universal Mother
Jai Amma who wears silky white clothes
Jai Amma who is the embodiement of uncoditional love
Jai Amma whose crown sparkles with diamonds
Jai Amma whose voice is the musical gift to the world
Jai Amma who serves all humanity
Jai Amma who is worshiped in all worlds
Jai Amma whose face is known everywhere
Jai Amma who wears all the colors of the rainbow on Devi Bhava
Jai Amma who is gentle as a dove
Jai Amma who is strong as a lion
Jai Amma who is compassionate
Jai Amma who has never taken a breath of air for herself
Jai Amma who is the supreme being
Jai Amma whose picture is in every house
Jai Amma who is the Darshan Ma
Jai Amma who creates her childrens devotion
Jai Amma who was able to overcome all suffering
Jai Amma who is always kind
Jai Amma who is named Mata Amritanandamayi
Jai Amma who is the worlds refuge
Jai Sri Sri Mata Amma Amritanandamayi Devi

Poems by Children

Beautiful Poems to Amma by young ones

Far Away
I sit thousands of miles away, Thinking, why am I so far away? Why can I not be with you night and day? Why Amma why am I so far away?I wish to be able to drink you love Out of a cup that never empties. I wish to hear Your soothing voice Which gives my mind peace.I wish for your glowing presence To fill my heart. Oh Amma, to me you are Saraswati,Goddess of all knowledge and art Oh, Amma, sometimes I feel as though We are separated by a thousand seas. Oh Amma, your feet are my refuge, For life is the hot sun, and You are like the trees. Please bring me closer toYou, please Amma please.
- By Gayathri

A moment in the lap of undying love

As the Birds twitter Meditating with Amma Merging with Silence.They wait for hours For Her golden glance, hug, kiss The priceless momentsSeconds in Her lap What else could matter right then? Hold on forever.
By Ameya

Amma

On the morning of the 27th of September 1953, in a small poor fishing village, Parayakadavu in the Quilon district of Kerala, a baby girl was born. Her parents gave her the name Sudhamani. She came into this world not in tears as babies usually do, but with a beaming smile on her face, as if prophesying the joy and bliss she was to bring to the world.
Sudhamani spent the years of her childhood and teens immersed in intense spiritual practices in order to present a living example for the world. Even as a small child, she could often be found absorbed in deep meditation, totally oblivious of her surroundings.
By the age of five, she had already begun composing devotional songs laden with deep mystical insight.
Another quality that was clearly manifest in Sudhamani from this tender age was her love and compassion toward her fellow human beings. Though only a child, Sudhamani did whatever she could to ease the suffering of her elderly neighbors. She washed their clothes, bathed them and even brought them food and clothing from her own home. This habit of giving away things from her family’s house landed her in deep trouble. However, no amount physical abuse or punishment could stop the expression of her inborn compassion.
She later said, " An unbroken stream of Love flows from me towards all beings in the cosmos. That is my inborn nature."
‘Amma’ as she is known all over the world today, has inspired and started innumerable humanitarian services. She has earned international recognition for her outstanding contributions to the world community. She is recognized as an extraordinary spiritual leader by the United Nations and by the people all over the world.
Though Amma makes no claims herself, those who watch her closely notice that she is the greatest example of her teaching. Her disciples and believers imbibe her teachings by just watching her.
For the past 30 years Amma has dedicated her life to the uplifting of suffering humanity through the simplest of gestures – an embrace. In this intimate manner Amma had blessed and consoled more than 21 million people throughout the world.
When someone asked Amma why she receives every person who comes to her in a loving embrace Amma replied, “ If you ask the river,' why do you flow?' what can it say?”
Amma spends most of her waking hours receiving the distressed and all who come to her for comfort, day after day without a break.
Once a press reporter asked Amma how was it possible for her to embrace each and every one in the same loving way, even if they were diseased or unpleasant. Amma replied, “ When a bee hovers over a garden of varied flowers, what it beholds is not the difference between the flowers but the honey within them. Similarly Amma sees the same Supreme Self in each and every one.” As Dr. Jane Goodall, while presenting Amma with the 2002 Gandhi-King Award for Non-violence said, " She stands here in front of us. God's love in a human body."

Europe Tour 2005

Amma's 2005 Europe Tour

Zurich - Oct - 7

Munich - Oct 9 - 11

Manheim - Oct 13 - 15

Paris - Oct 17 - 19

London - Oct 21 -23

Holland - Oct 25 -27

Finland - Oct 29 - 30

Toulon - Nov 1 - 3

Barcelona - Nov 5 - 7

Milan - Nov 9 -11

Dublin - Nov 13 - 14

Aum Amriteswarayi Namaha

What People say about Amma

His Excellency Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam President of India
(talking to students at one of Amma's colleges)

"You are all blessed because you are constantly showered with the blessings of Amma. The ambience of her colleges is sufficient to instil in you the values of life. Her divine mission should be your inspiration to make right use of life and add value to society."

His Excellency Bhairon Singh Shekhawat Vice-President of India

"Several of her schemes reflect her bondless love for every soul. Amma's work has refined the lives of millions; she is a woman of action and not just words."

Sri. Atal Bihari VajpayeeHonourable Prime Minister of India

''The world today needs solid proof that our human values are useful, that such qualities as compassion, selflessness, renunciation and humility have the power to create a great and prosperous society. Amma's work provides us with the much-needed proof."

Sri. L.K. Advani, Honourable Deputy Prime Minister of India

"There are people who can expound eloquently on all the scriptures and explain all their nuances, but rare are those who live the life described in these scriptures. Sri Mata Amritanandamayi belongs to this rare category of enlightened souls."

Sri. Brijesh Misra National Security Advisor of India

"She is a great person. She has done tremendous work for the poor and downtrodden, which most Mahatmas do not do. Most are going for big people. Amma is going for small people, the common people. This is a great thing. She is effecting jobs, effecting education—this is God's work."

Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi Honourable Minister for Human Resources of India

"We are fortunate enough to live in a century when a divine personality like Amma is moving about in the globe. Divinity is manifested in the person of Amma. The Indian concept of Jagadamba [Mother of the world]—this is what Amma embodies."

"While the governments lag behind in providing these facilities, Amma has worked wonders. Amma's service to the entire humanity is fast-expanding, and it is wholehearted and selfless. She expects nothing in return. Divinity Herself has come to help humanity."

Riitta Uosukainen Head of Parliament of Finland

"Her hug has a wonderful power... Amma's teachings can be put into practice in every country, and with her hug She brings consolation to many people."

Mr. Simon Crean Member of Parliament of Australia

"At a time when security and peace issues dominate the international agenda, her actions and activities are a beacon of light and inspiration to Australians and people all over the world."

His Excellency Shri. Madanlal Khurana Governor of Rajasthan
(explaining to Amma how She was the inspiration behind his distribution of Rs. 250,000 each week to his state's poor and suffering).

"Amma, you showed me the path."

Sri. V.S. Rao Honourable Union Minister of State of Home Affairs of India

"The foreign philanthropists and devotees, they are giving every year, more than 4055 laks of rupees ($8.6 million, US). to touch the substratum of society of this country. I have only come across only this math [M.A. Math] which is touching the substratum of the society, providing houses and all other benefits for the destitute, women, and handicapped."

Sri. Narendra Modi Honourable Chief Minister of Gujarat

"Amma is a very, very transparent personality. She is in the real sense a "mother." And as a mother, she loves all of the universe. She blesses us all. She gives strength to the individual, to the system and to the spiritual. That is how I feel!"

Sri. A.K. Antony Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala

"There is no field of humanitarian activity where Amma's ashram has not been involved."

"This is from my own experience. Amma has a special power to sponge up one's pains. Her presence has brought values of love and compassion back to a strife-torn society..Till date, Amma has not uttered a single word that has hurt anybody. She has always been kind to everyone, even those who have hurt her."

Smt. Uma Bharati Honourable Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh

"We love Amma not because of who She is, but because of who we become in Her presence."

Sri. Pon Radhakrishnan Honourable Union Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs of India

"Mata Amritanandamayi is the cultural ambassador of India."

Smt. Amisha Beagun Mirza Honourable Mayor of Ahmedabad

"Amma does fantastic work for communal harmony. She does great service to human beings, without any difference of class, creed, religion or nationality. I was really moved by Her work. I was overcome by emotions when I met Her. I was moved! She is wonderful!"

Sri. Sarad Pawar President of the Congress Party in Maharashtra
Member of the Parliament of India

"Amma's approach is to totally remove the suffering of the people. Amma's mission is to comfort and uplift humanity by developing and upgrading their skills."

Ms. Tanja Karpela Honourable Cultural Minister of Finland

"There are things, that you cannot... The hug was heartfelt and warm."
"Her humanitarian work is incredibly extensive."

MSuperstar Mohanlanalayalam Film

"My chosen profession is very demanding and hectic. Apart from professional pressures, you have to deal with quite a lot of issues in everyday life. And in moments of crisis, I find solace in my deep faith in Amma. The fact that Amma’s love is permanent and infallible help me face any difficult situations. Even when all the odds are against you, Amma's love and support give me the confidence to live on, forgetting all the tensions".

A.K. Antony, Chief Minister of Kerala

"I am not a believer of God. I have no particular loyalty towards any religion nor do I condemn any. In that sense you can quite call me an atheist. But surprisingly, I was deeply inspired by Amma. She has been able to strongly influence atheists like me. I am not attracted by any divine miracles, but by the simplicity and values she instil in others. It is her commitment to humanity and her untiring spirit of service towards the poor and the needy that attract me".

Swami Amritaswarupananda, Head of Mata Amritanandamayi Math

"Each time I see Amma, I realise that God is not in the heaven, but among us. Perhaps it is in answer to the devotees' undying desire that God has decided to be with his disciples. Amma, simple and humble, very much like any other person, is the common man’s God. She symbolises all that I search in my God".

Union Minister O. Rajagopal

"Amma teaches that love is the foundation of all great religions and our devotion to God should be commitment to the poor and needy. If we accept these two simple principles in everyday life, Kerala will truly become God’s own country".

Senior Congress leader K. Karunakaran

"I am a believer of God, I don’t have any faith in demi-Gods or sanyasis. But Matha Amrithanandamayi is different from other sanyasis. She does not pretend to be a God. But she is a universal mother. And how can a son not like his mother?"

VHP leader Ashok Singal

"Amma, in all sense of the word, is as sweet as Amritham (honey). Her ability to put the great philosophies of spirituality and religion in the simplest of language that could be understood even by children is miraculous."

Eminent novelist Dr. M. Leelavathi

"In this age of evil and calamities, she is like Mother earth - tolerant, loving and compassionate. She is the Universal Mother".

Ms. Yolanda King, daughter of Martin Luther King JR

"What I cherish most about Amma, is that she not only talks the talk but she walks the talk"

**** For more quotes on Amma, visit www.amritapuri.org/amma and then go to the qoutes section

Bhajans

Learn Devotional Bhajans to Amma

Amma Amma Taye
(Bhajan of the day)
listen to this bhajan online!

ammâ ammâ tâye
akhilândesvarî nîye annapûrnesvarî tâye

âdi parâsaktî nîye îmmân ilatil yellâm
nada kutumammâ untan âda lînâl

rakshikka vendum ammâ ammammâ
rakshikka vendum ammâ
kutchiyil summakkamal kodi latcham
uyrigal endrai

pakshi vâ hananin sodari soudari
petra mudal unnai padi duven
pari pû rani hârani nîye

lakshiyam enakku nîye ammâ... ammâ
lakshiya enakku nîye
alakshiyam chaithi dâthe
jagadîsvarî tâye bhuvanesvarî nîye
katti katti enne nî ammâ... ammâ
katti katti enne nî kavalai padutha enni nâl
katti duvar yâro kâmâkshi mînâkshi
nî sâkshi – rakshikka vendum ammâ...

Translation:

O Mother, Mother, dear Divine Mother, Goddess of the Universe, Giver of food to all creatures, Thou art the Primal Supreme Power.

Everything in the world happens because of Your Divine Play.

Protect me Mother, o Mother, protect me... without conceivung in the womb, You have given birth to millions and millions of beings.

O Sister of Lord Vishnu who rides the bird Garuda, o Beautiful One, from birth itself I am singing Your glories. Thou art the Perfect One, Primordial Cause, the Destroyer...

Thou art my life’s goal, o Mother. Ignore me not, o Goddess of the World. Thou art the Goddess Lalita, Ruler of the World. O Mother, if Thou throwest me into troubles again and again, who else is there to protect me? O Mother with the enchanting eyes, Thou art the Omnipresent Witness of all.

Amritapuri Bridge

Amrita Setu:Connecting Alappad Panchayat with the Mainland

28 August 2005 -- Amritapuri

Anyone who has ever climbed up to the roof of the 16-storey ashram flats knows how breathtaking the view is. From that height, two things become clear: the ashram possesses the only multi-storeyed buildings as far as the eye can see, and the ashram is almost completely surrounded by water.

When the tsunami hit on December 26th, everyone from the surrounding villages rushed to Amritapuri, knowing it to be the only true place of refuge. Amma then directed everyone to be transported across the backwaters via ashram boats.

On March 29th when the government issued a warning of a possible second tsunami, the scene repeated itself. (News) Because of the limited number of boats available and the fact that so many people depended on the Ashram to get them across, it took more than three hours to transport everyone to the mainland. Fortunately, nothing happened, but Amma took note of the long time it took to evacuate and said that a more efficient way to transport people to the mainland must be established.

In the end Amma decided that a footbridge had to be built, with the goal of being able to evacuate all of Alappad Panchayat within 30 minutes.

Today Swami Amritaswarupananda laid the foundation stones for the new bridge. Extending from the jetty near Amma's father's house to the mainland, the bridge will be 100 meters long, five meters wide and seven meters high. The target date for completion is the first of March.
Currently, Alappad is connected with the mainland via only one bridge, which is two kilometers from the southern tip of the penninsula. The government has started constructing another bridge at the northern end of Alappad. Alappad is 17.5 kilometers in length. The ashram is located in the middle.

Amma's Message

Amma's Krishna Jayanthi Message 2005
August 27th (just past midnight)

We should be able to accept defeat

Ashtami Rohini--the confluence of the star Rohini and the eighth day of the moon--is the day of the birth of Sri Krishna, born to Vasudeva and Devaki in the Dvapara Yuga. Yet he still continues to live in everyone and everything as the all-pervading consciousness that is beyond birth and death. Sri Krishna has to take birth in the womb of love within each of us.
There have been very few who have been able to rejoice both in victory and in defeat. Sri Krishna is one who celebrated both. That is why he was always able to give a big smile.
He took birth with a smile on his face, lived with a smile, and left his body with a smile. The message that he conveyed through his life is that we should make life full of laughter.
Even when we have small responsibilities, we become very egoistic. But when we are weighed down by just small problems, we forget to smile and be happy. But look at Sri Krishna--how enormous were his responsibilities! No matter how many fields of action he was involved in, he enacted and fulfilled all of them beautifully. Without seeing anything as insignificant, he took up all kinds of responsibilities and saw them to completion.
Try cracking a joke to someone who is carrying a burden on his head--because of the load he will not be able to laugh. But while Sri Krishna carried Himalayan responsibilities, he never forgot to smile.
In the Srimad Bhagavatam, it is said that Sri Krishna even once lost a war. Still he willingly accepted the defeat with a smile. He readily accepted the responsibility for it. But in today's society, we see people who try to put the blame of their failures on others. And if they succeed, they will immediately say that it was their capacities that allowed them to do so.
The attitude "I will only accept success" is wrong. We should also be able to accept defeat. It is not the number of victories in one's life that determines whether or not it was successful. In fact, life is a mixture of success and failure. Real victory is achieved when one is able to accept both with mental equanimity. This is what Sri Krishna taught us through his life.
Even if we receive a small position, amount of power or recognition, we become so completely carried away that we forget that we are human beings. But even though Sri Krishna knew that he was the All-Powerful, he never was egoistic about it. When he had to act like a simple man, he was simpler than the simplest. His patience was like that of Mother Earth. But in instances where he saw that there was no other way out, he did not hesitate to teach egoistic and crooked people like Paundra Vasudevan a good lesson.
Sri Krishna, who was established in performing good actions, happily accepted all the different roles that were put before him. Each role was different. He had to act as a king, as a citizen, as a father, as a friend, as a brother, as a warrior, as a messenger, as the beloved of the gopis, as a charioteer and much more. His performance was perfect. Only after completing his roles did he put away the costumes.
Sri Krishna's life was like a cool breeze that caressed everybody and everything. The journey of his life flowed smoothly, like moving from one room to another.
He showered happiness on all those who came to him. His end came when he was struck by the arrow of a hunter. Before he left his body and set out on his final journey, the Supreme One blessed the hunter with liberation.
When we remember the play of Sri Krishna's childhood—like breaking the clay pots filled with butter and milk, and many other things—we should also remember the right attitude that he had towards life and his efficiency in action.
May everyone be filled with the strength and the wherewithal to follow in the footsteps of Sri Krishna—Amma offers this prayer to the Paramatman

CELEBRATE!!!

Celebrate! Life is Fun! Amma is here! Peace will prevail!

Sri Krishna Jayanthi

Sri Krishna Jayanthi in Amritapuri
Yesterday was krishna's birthday, and Amma of course was the first to celebrate!!!

The Krishnajayanti celebrations at Amritapuri began with Go Puja, the worship of Mother Cow.

Just before midnight--the time of Sri Krishna's birth--Amma went to the stage. A puja was performed as the "Srimad Bhagavatam" in Malayalam was read describing the birth of Sri Krishna.

Amma sang "Agatanayi Agatanayi Krishna Devan," "Radhe Govinda Gopi Gopala" and "Govinda Gopala." She then gave a satsang about the life of Sri Krishna.

After singing several songs to Sri Krishna, Amma rose to her feet, telling everyone to forget everything and dance to the tune of "Hari Bol Hari Bol."

Uriyadi, the traditional pot-breaking game of Krishnajayanti, was performed infront of the Ashram. The studetns of Amrita University are shown here, making a human pyramid to break the pot.

Worlds most precious treasure Amma!

"Amma is the world's most precious treasure....it is our duty to protect her"

"We will strive to protect her and bow at her Lotus feet"

-Amma's Children all around the World
Aum Amriteswarayi Namaha

Quotes

"In this universe it is love that binds everything together. Love is the very foundation, beauty and fulfillment of life."
-Amma


"We are all beads strung on the same thread of love"
-Amma

Devi Bhava Poem

She appeared to me in the form of Devi
With a sword in her hands
She danced
Her face absorbed in pure bliss
She gave my cheek a sweet kiss
Her feet as pure as can be
To pour honey and ghee
Adorned in absolute beauty
She is a blissful cuttie
No matter what you can see
She is 100 times prettyier than thee
With a crown on her head
And bangles on her ancles
She is the infinite goddess Amriteswari

Aum Amriteswarayi Namaha

Please Come

AMMA, PLEASE COME TO MICHIGAN AND SAN RAMON THIS WINTER FOR YOUR ANNUAL TOUR!!!!!!

We want to see your physical form dear Amriteswari, Queen of the Universe.

Labor Day retreat at M.A. Center

Have a peaceful and loving Labor Day, go to the M.A. Center Labor Day retreat with Br. Dayamrita on September 3rd & 4th

Br. Dayamrita will lead us in a weekend of silence, introspection and devotion. You can plan to attend either Saturday or Sunday or BOTH days. This retreat is a wonderful way to give ourselves the gift of time just to "be", renewing and refreshing ourselves for the busy Fall season ahead.

This annually retreat includes meditation, chanting, hatha yoga, question & answer sessions, and opportunities to hear Dayamrita Swami’s inspiring stories of his experiences with Amma. Delicious vegetarian meals are also included. Please join us for the weekend and return home reconnected and revitalized.

Due to the silent and meditative nature of the retreat children under 12 will not be able to attend the retreat on Saturday (Sep. 3) However on Sunday (Sep. 4) special arrangements for childcare for ages 4-12 have been made from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. This is dependant on having 5 or more kids sign up and some parental participartion. Please contact us at events@ammachi.org if you would like to bring your child(ren).

MA Center rates are available at nearby San Ramon hotels for those who need accommodations. Please contact us at 510-537-9417 or email us at events@ammachi.org for more information. Find directions to M. A. Center.

Retreat Fees: Both Days $60, 1 Day $35 (Fee includes all meals. No partial days)
Children (4-11) Sunday ONLY: $15
Payment Options:1. Easy and quick ON-LINE registration click here OR 2. FAX your registration and Visa or Master Card information to: 510.217.2286 OR3. MAIL your registration and check or credit card number to:
M.A. Center /Attention: Retreats,P.O. Box 613, San Ramon, CA 94583

****For on-line registration and retreat schudele go to www.amma.org

Update on the Attack in Amritapuri

Amma asks all to Forgive
August 21st, 2005

Stranger with a hidden knife rushes to the stage during Amma's bhajans. Devotees stopped him and have handed him over to the police. None of the Devi Bhava programs were interrupted by this incident.
Amma's response to the incident:
A reporter asked Amma, "How should Amma's children respond to this?"
Amma answered with a question of her own. "What is the use in reacting? Forgive. The past is gone."
Amma continued, "Whatever is meant to happen will happen when the time comes. I just want to do what I have to do. Anyway, one day we all have to die. Therefore, it is better to get worn out than to rust away." READ THE FULL MESSAGE BELOW:

Press Conference given by Amma:
As Amma gave darshan, the leading press agencies from around the world descended on Amritapuri to find out what had really happened earlier in the night. Since the news was already appearing in the media, devotees from around the world began calling the ashram to inquire about Amma's wellbeing. Reporters from the leading news agencies, like Reuters, NDTV, Sahara TV, Aajtak, Star News, ANI etc., were waiting for hours to interview Amma.
As soon as the darshan finished, Amma came straight from the stage and met all the waiting reporters in her hut.
One of the reporters asked, "What is Amma's reaction to this incident?"
Amma smilingly replied, "I don’t have any reaction to this incident. Amma doesn’t have any fear of death. There have never been any security measures taken here in the ashram, and if anyone wants to kill Amma, they can do it anywhere at any time. Amma is not afraid of death at all."
Amma continued by referring to the swamis. "They are afraid that Amma can be harmed. There was a police intelligence report passed on to the ashram officials about 2 weeks back that stated there may be a threat against Amma."
She went on to say, "Amma doesn’t know all the people staying here. Many come just to get darshan and don’t leave the ashram afterwards. They may hang around and sleep on the balcony or on the beach somewhere. Amma doesn't even know where all the residents in the ashram come from. If Amma were really afraid of death, the first thing she would have done is check the background of everyone staying here at the ashram."
Amma continued, "Whatever is meant to happen will happen when the time comes. I just want to do what I have to do. Anyway, one day we all have to die. Therefore, it is better to get worn out than to rust away."
The next reporter asked, "How should Amma's children respond to this?"
Amma answered with a question of her own. "What is the use in reacting? Forgive. The past is gone."
Amma was then asked, "Hearing this news, devotees around the world will be very anxious. What is your message for them?"
Amma advised "They need not worry at all. Nothing will happen to Amma. He didn’t attack Amma; he simply came onto the stage with a knife. Amma wants all her children to be patient and calm. They should not create any problems in the name of this incident. That is Amma's only fear. When Amma was informed about what happened, she said, 'No one should worry about this; there is no reason to panic. Even if there were policeman and security here, if someone wants to kill Amma, they can kill me. My path is this (hugging people)… till the end. Amma will continue to give darshan."
The last question was asked, "Would you like to meet the attacker?"
Amma replied, "I don’t have any problem meeting him. Amma will meet everyone. Amma has overcome much worse situations than this in the past. Amma doesn’t give much importance to this incident."
-------------------------------------------------------
Stranger wielding a knife apprehended in Amritapuri

The large hall was full as Amma began the program for the first Devi Bhava darshan after the US tour. Over 15,000 tokens were distributed for darshan.
After Amma's satsang, during the 3rd song of the evening bhajans at around 6.15 pm, a man wearing a yellow shawl came onto the men's side of the stage. He was suspiciously holding something under the shawl, and was walking towards Amma. When asked to sit he refused. As he came behind the chorus and within 10 feet from Amma, one of the brahmacharis confronted him and pushed him to the side of the stage. A small skirmish ensued as Amma continued singing and the man was forcibly removed from the stage. At this point he pulled a knife out from under his shawl
Once off the stage several brahmacharis (renunciates) and devotees attempted to take the man into custody. In the process of subduing the man, two ashram residents Jitesh and Ramesh were slightly injured. Arun, a devotee from Kollam received a 4-inch deep stab wound on his back and was taken to the hospital. During the skirmish, before the man was taken into custody, two other men from the crowd assaulted the brahmacharis and fled the scene.
Later the assailant was handed over to the police. His identity remains unknown, as he is giving various alias names such as Pavitran, Joseph and various places of residence as Idukki and Palakkad. He told the police that he was "not able to fulfil his mission."
The ashram is looking into the matter seriously.
During the bhajans, Swami Amritaswarupananda wanted to get up and immediately investigate the matter. But Amma asked him to stay and sing. Later Amma explained that She did not want him to act with anger, but wanted him to act with a calm mind.
Amma continued all her programs as scheduled and is now giving darshan. All the programs are continuing as normal. Amma looks as beautiful as ever in a green sari.
Amma requests all her devotees around the world not to worry and to be patient and calm.

* Amma's response was posted earlier, scroll down

UN Grants SPecial Consultative Status to M.A. Math

UN Grants Special Consultative Status to M. A. Math
July 24, 2005 New York

On July 24, 2005, the United Nations announced the distinguished award of Special UN consultative status to Mata Amritanandamayi Math (M.A. Math), a leader in tsunami relief efforts and humanitarian activities in India. The Math is among 30 Indian NGO’s to ever receive formal UN affiliation in India. This important partnership will provide opportunities for joint collaboration, most notably in disaster relief efforts and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals.

Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri, Vice Chairman of Mata Amritanandayami Math, stated, “The plight of the tsunami victims has touched us all. M.A. Math was immediately able to deliver relief to the tsunami victims, and has a leading role in the relief efforts in India. The United Nations, along with many other organizations and NGOs, has also provided tremendous support in Indonesia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Due to the consultative status granted to the Math by the UN, we can now join forces with the world renowned body in a collaborative effort to bring continued relief to those affected by the tsunami disaster.”
With branch ashrams throughout India and centers worldwide, M. A. Math & affiliates are focused on sustainable development in the following areas with a vast array of charitable efforts: Social / Economic / Housing Development; Education; Healthcare Delivery; and Environmental improvement. M.A. Math was founded by the world-renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader, Mata Amritanandamayi.
A past Director-General of UNESCO, an agency of the United Nations, Mr. Felix Martin, sees in Amma the “foundations of the future world we are committed to make.”
Most recently, the organization has been focused on relief efforts in the wake of the 2004 tsunami disaster. The Math received international press for its generous pledge of 1 billion rupees ($23 Million USD) to rebuild homes that were completely destroyed throughout Southern India; 6200 homes are being built now in Southern India, Andoman & Nicobar islands and Sri Lanka. Along with the reconstruction of homes, the Math is providing healthcare services, the distribution of free daily meals and essential household items, free training and employment, orphan adoption, and various forms of physical and psychological support to the victims. For fishermen affected in the coastal areas, boats, fishing nets and boat engines are being given to restore the livelihood of tsunami affected lives. At the request of the Sri Lankan government, Amma visited to help the devastated nation through the construction of homes, pension plans, and other efforts.
Unlike many organizations, M. A. Math has minimal administrative overhead; thus, every dollar is used in the service of those who need it most.
It is the Math’s intention to work with various UN agencies to further the tsunami rehabilitation projects & other broad-based humanitarian relief efforts around the world.
The U.N. Information Center in Delhi offers many capabilities for M.A. Math’s collaboration plans. M. A. Math will investigate the possibilities to partner as a grassroots implementer in the following UN agencies: OCHA’s humanitarian efforts, UNICEF, UNDP, UNIFEM, and other subsidiary bodies of the UN. M.A. Math’s intention is to broaden the extent of the tsunami rehabilitation work being done within India and the global community at large.

For more information, please contact: Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri
Organization Name: Mata Amritanandamayi Math
Tel. Number 91-984- 289 -6399 Fax. Number 91- 476 – 289 - 767
amritswarup@yahoo.com & mam@amritapuri.org
Website URL www.amma.org & www.amritapuri.org

108 names of Amma Amritanandamayi

Amma's 108 Names in English

1. Adorations to Amma who is the Divine Mother of all.
2. Adorations to Amma who comes near us.
3. Adorations to Amma who surrounds us with Her love.
4. Adorations to Amma who wears white clothes that are exquisitely soft.
5. Adorations to Amma who is creamy brown like chocolate.
6. Adorations to Amma whose ears are bending towards us, ready to listen.
7. Adorations to Amma who has adorable black wavy hair that dances.
8. Adorations to Amma whose nose ring is like the sun and moon shining together.
9. Adorations to Amma who Herself is radiant as a thousand suns rising together. 10. Adorations to Amma whose forehead is smooth and calm as a peaceful lake.
11. Adorations to Amma whose earrings are like Herself, brown with golden light shining from within.
12. Adorations to Amma who is short and small, yet immense at the same time.
13. Adorations to Amma who has sweet feet, with Her ankles decorated with pearls and rudrakshas.
14. Adorations to Amma whose feet are to be worshipped tenderly.
15. Adorations to Amma who smells heavenly sweet.
16. Adorations to Amma whose lap is urgently sought for.
17. Adorations to Amma who whispers messages of love in our ears.
18. Adorations to Amma who sniffs off with a kiss the dust and dirt covering our heart and soul. 19. Adorations to Amma who has always been with us.
20. Adorations to Amma who watches over us.
21. Adorations to Amma who nurses Her children!
22. Adorations to Amma whose belly contains all creation.
23. Adorations to Amma whose two knees support her toddling children.
24. Adorations to Amma who rubs our backs.
25. Adorations to Amma who gives what each person needs.
26. Adorations to Amma whose shoulder becomes filthy from the work of washing Her children. 27. Adorations to Amma who makes us not even notice and rest on Her shoulder. 28. Adorations to Amma who wipes our tears with Her hands.
29. Adorations to Amma whose glances we are all pining for.
30. Adorations to Amma who bathes our hearts with Her glance.
31. Adorations to Amma whose eyes are full of grace and compassion.
32. Adorations to Amma who loves all She sees.
33. Adorations to Amma who is behind everyone's face.
34. Adorations to Amma who is sweet and gentle.
35. Adorations to Amma who is strong and wild like a thunderstorm.
36. Adorations to Amma who knows all that we do.
37. Adorations to Amma who understands.
38. Adorations to Amma whose life is only for others.
39. Adorations to Amma whose laughter is unearthly.
40. Adorations to Amma whose whole body bursts out laughing!
41. Adorations to Amma who opening Her mouth to sing, makes tears flow unceasingly. 42. Adorations to Amma who sways back and forth while singing.
43. Adorations to Amma whose hands dance as She sings.
44. Adorations to Amma whose whole body sings!
45. Adorations to Amma (with whom) when She sings all creation sings.
46. Adorations to Amma who teaches our heart.
47. Adorations to Amma who wants our minds to be peaceful and calm.
48. Adorations to Amma who is overjoyed when we make any spiritual effort.
49. Adorations to Amma who is the Mother ever ready to help.
50. Adorations to Amma who doesn't want you to worry, Amma will look after you.
51. Adorations to Amma who says to share our sorrows only with God.
52. Adorations to Amma who only wants what is good for us.
53. Adorations to Amma who leads us along.
54. Adorations to Amma who is to be totally trusted.
55. Adorations to Amma who is always working, teaching us to make our work our worship to Her.
56. Adorations to Amma who gives and creates work so that we may offer it to Her. 57. Adorations to Amma who lets us be near Her.
58. Adorations to Amma who is desperately searched for.
59. Adorations to Amma who is ever compassionate.
60. Adorations to Amma who keeps us thinking about Her.
61. Adorations to Amma who talks to us through so many ways.
62. Adorations to Amma whom we need to learn how to listen to.
63. Adorations to Amma who is the Divine giver of Happiness.
64. Adorations to Amma who through us can make others happy thereby making us happy. 65. Adorations to Amma who is pleased with us when we try to see others as Herself. 66. Adorations to Amma who is with you right now!!!
67. Adorations to Amma who comes to us as Devi in Devi Bhava.
68. Adorations to Amma who wears a silver crown.
69. Adorations to Amma who wears all the colors of the rainbow.
70. Adorations to Amma who wears a diamond belt, dazzling the stars in heaven.
71. Adorations to Amma who has golden chains enhancing her belly.
72. Adorations to Amma who wears lovely flower malas.
73. Adorations to Amma who wears earrings like bells calling us to come.
74. Adorations to Amma who soothes and awakens our souls by Her touch.
75. Adorations to Amma who whispers our mantra in our ears.
76. Adorations to Amma who calls us to merge with Her.
77. Adorations to Amma who gives us our names.
78. Adorations to Amma who showers us with flower petals.
79. Adorations to Amma who is the object of supreme devotion.
80. Adorations to Amma who is our everything!
81. Adorations to Amma who is love in its fullness.
82. Adorations to Amma who cares for us.
83. Adorations to Amma whose worship is easy to perform (just love Her).
84. Adorations to Amma who urges us to go within.
85. Adorations to Amma who is really subtle.
86. Adorations to Amma who dwells in our hearts.
87. Adorations to Amma who gives Herself.
88. Adorations to Amma whose cheek is bruised and marked from giving Herself to us. 89. Adorations to Amma who can make tears flow when She chooses.
90. Adorations to Amma who knows all thoughts and feelings.
91. Adorations to Amma who takes care of our sick minds and souls.
92. Adorations to Amma who controls all circumstances with perfect timing.
93. Adorations to Amma who reminds us, it is not us that does anything.
94. Adorations to Amma who is supremely patient.
95. Adorations to Amma who liberates our souls.
96. Adorations to Amma who is the playful Mother.
97. Adorations to Amma who guides up every step.
98. Adorations to Amma who wants us to get up after we fall.
99. Adorations to Amma who secretly takes away our pain.
100. Adorations to Amma whose smiling face gladdens all.
101. Adorations to Amma whose smiling face is everywhere.
102. Adorations to Amma whose lap is everywhere that we may rest.
103. Adorations to Amma who is supremely joyful.
104. Adorations to Amma who is the soul of peace.
105. Adorations to Amma who has everything wholesome and charming hidden within Her.
106. Adorations to Amma who makes one want to melt into Her.
107. Adorations to Amma who is our Mother.
108. Adorations to Amma who will let us find Her one day.

The Worlds Precious treasure AMMA

Amma

Who is dark like chocloate,and yet light as waterfalls
Whoose power is greater than we can comprehend
Who hears and sees every thought and action of ours
Whose hands have never hurt a particle
Whose eyes are filled with infinite compassion
Who appears as Devi wearing a silver crown
Whose voice is sweeter than all flavors of ice cream
Who is the divine embodiement of only good qualities
Whose soul is forever yearning to help all humanity
Who came into this world completly awake
Whose prasadam is worth more than anything in this world
Who transforms hate into love just by her glance
Whose sweet nature shouldn't be mistaken, for she can be terrifying as Kali
Who was thought to be a "crazy girl" but now by those same is regarded to be a goddess
Whose cheek is bruised because, of her non-stop serving humanity
Who wears a saree that is softer than softest anything
Whose heavenly smell is only to be experienced, when with Amma
Who is the precious treasure of the world
Whose feet are worshiped by animals and people
Who is named Sri Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi
To that Amma I bow

Amma's Darshan

"Let Mothers Darshan nourish our deep hunger for love in our hearts"
- Amma's Children

Most Precious Amma

Metal Detectors installed in Amritapuri

It is the wish of Amma's devotees and disciples to increase security around Amma. After discussions between the Ashram's Board of Trustees, the police have installed metal detectors at the entrances to the temple.
The detectors only slightly slow the flow of traffic into the temple, and the devotees are happy to put up with the small inconvenience. It is clear that everyone just wants Amma to be safe.
During darshan, many devotees have been breaking down in tears as they tell Amma how upset they were when they heard about the attack.
There is also a uniformed security presence throughout the ashram now, as well as uniformed and plainclothes police officers.

"Amma is the most precious treasure of the world," one brahmachari said. "It is our duty to protect her."

Mata Amritanandamayi Math Press

22 August 2005, Amritapuri

Deep Regret and Grave Concern
The Mata Amritanandamayi Math—which stands and works for love, compassion, brotherhood and world peace and harmony—views the incident with deep regret and grave concern.
The statements issued in some media saying that the culprit had been a resident of the Amritapuri Ashram and was recently expelled are completely false. He is not associated with the Ashram in any way. The nature of his arrival at Amritapuri, the motivation for his attack and his stories are all unclear.
The culprit says that he has been trying to have Amma's darshan for the past 15 years but has never been able to do so. This claim is ridiculous, as everyone knows, Amma personally sees one and all who come to her—regardless of caste, religion, nationality or social status—and she does not stop receiving people until she has seen the last person.
The legal system has taken the case and will do the needful. Amma has told her devotees all over the world to be patient and calm. They should not create any problems in the name of this incident. She says that she will continue to receive people in the same way and stand for communal harmony, social service, world peace and universal brotherhood, without any fear.

(This was the Mata Amritanandamayi Math press realease after the attack on Beloved Amma)
Scroll down to read Amma's divine response to the attack......under "Amma is not afraid of death"

Darling Amma

Darling Amma

When I call you darling Amma you come and help
When I think of you darling Amma you appear in some form
When I bow to you darling Amma you wash away all my sins
When I offer you something darling Amma you humbly except it
When I hear you darling Amma you make sure I understand what you sayWhen I see you as Devi darling Amma you bless me without my knowledge
When I accept a situation as your will darling Amma you smile and bless all humanity
When I pray to you darling Amma you never don't help
When I explain you to people darling Amma you help them understand
When I write this poem darling Amma you are writing it through me
And the miracle is darling Amma that you are guiding not just me but all humanity!
Thank you Amma for allways being in my heart and guiding each and every step that I take.
I bow down at your Lotus Undescribebly Beautiful Rose Feet Darling Amriteswari!

Amma's Heavenly Voice

Namah Sivaya!

Bhajans are heard everywhere, they are the sustainer of all sound, let Amma's voice sink deep within your heart and fullfill your deep hunger from within.......Aum Amriteswarayi Namaha

"Amma is not afraid of Death"

"Amma is not afraid of death"

As Amma gave darshan, the leading press agencies from around the world descended on Amritapuri to find out what had really happened earlier in the night. (NEWS) Since the news was already appearing in the media, devotees from around the world began calling the ashram to inquire about Amma's wellbeing. Reporters from the leading news agencies, like Reuters, NDTV, Sahara TV, Aajtak, Star News, ANI etc., were waiting for hours to interview Amma.
As soon as the darshan finished, Amma came straight from the stage and met all the waiting reporters in her hut.
One of the reporters asked, "What is Amma's reaction to this incident?"
Amma smilingly replied, "I don’t have any reaction to this incident. Amma doesn’t have any fear of death. There have never been any security measures taken here in the ashram, and if anyone wants to kill Amma, they can do it anywhere at any time. Amma is not afraid of death at all."
Amma continued by referring to the swamis. "They are afraid that Amma can be harmed. There was a police intelligence report passed on to the ashram officials about 2 weeks back that stated there may be a threat against Amma."
She went on to say, "Amma doesn’t know all the people staying here. Many come just to get darshan and don’t leave the ashram afterwards. They may hang around and sleep on the balcony or on the beach somewhere. Amma doesn't even know where all the residents in the ashram come from. If Amma were really afraid of death, the first thing she would have done is check the background of everyone staying here at the ashram."
Amma continued, "Whatever is meant to happen will happen when the time comes. I just want to do what I have to do. Anyway, one day we all have to die. Therefore, it is better to get worn out than to rust away."
The next reporter asked, "How should Amma's children respond to this?"
Amma answered with a question of her own. "What is the use in reacting? Forgive. The past is gone."
Amma was then asked, "Hearing this news, devotees around the world will be very anxious. What is your message for them?"
Amma advised "They need not worry at all. Nothing will happen to Amma. He didn’t attack Amma; he simply came onto the stage with a knife. Amma wants all her children to be patient and calm. They should not create any problems in the name of this incident. That is Amma's only fear. When Amma was informed about what happened, she said, 'No one should worry about this; there is no reason to panic. Even if there were policeman and security here, if someone wants to kill Amma, they can kill me. My path is this (hugging people)… till the end. Amma will continue to give darshan. Anybody can dress up as a brahmachari. If someone want to kill me, they can simply dress up like that.' "
The last question was asked, "Would you like to meet the attacker?"
Amma replied, "I don’t have any problem meeting him. Amma will meet everyone. Amma has overcome much worse situations than this in the past. Amma doesn’t give much importance to this incident."

(Amma's reply to the attack on her witch was held during bhajans in Amritapuri on August 21st, 2005)

* We love Dear Amma with all our hearts and don't want to loose her......Jai Ma!

I love Amma from Israel

Hey guys, I'm in Israel and my mom is ebing really weird....She doesn't get anything about Amma and is being really mean :(

July 4th party!

Hey guys,
This was the awsum pool party @ the Swaines on the 4th of July!!! Here Esmee, Caroline, and I are resting in the hammok.

Israel Trip

Hey ya'll,
I'm going to visit my mom in Israel in a couple days!
I'm sordef excited but not at the same time
Hope you all are having a good summer
luv ya
Purnima :)