Madurai, known as one of the world’s most ancient continuously inhabited cities, shimmered in anticipation of Amma’s arrival. Though obviously older, its first recorded history begins in the 3rd century BC. And as home to Meenakshi Devi, a prehistoric goddess of the fisherfolk, its divine connection to Amma can be easily understood.
Amma’s programs took place February 13 & 14 at the Ashram’s Brahmasthanam Temple. During her time with the people, they expressed their devotion through many classical traditions. One of them was Mulaipuri—an offering of sprouted grain to honour an eternal connection with nature.
As Amma embraced thousands, a vibrant procession of devotees arrived carrying clay pots full of tender, green shoots. An enchanting beauty shone with their singing of folk songs in praise of the Divine Mother. It is a ritual still observed in many rural temple festivals to bring prosperity and well-being to the people and their native environment.
Amma welcomed the offering with joy, showering flowers upon the devotees and watching gracefully as they sang and danced. The entire venue resonated with this primordial tuning, bringing a touch of village tradition into the heart of the gathering.
Amma’s addresses echoed the urgent need for all of humanity to tune to each other, alongside our natural world. By honouring the sanctity of this planet, we can rebalance sustainability for everyone and everything.
“True friendship blossoms when people can embrace and welcome disagreements and criticism with an open heart. Effective coexistence is born from this friendship,” she said.
“True coexistence is built on the awareness that humans should collectively share this Earth, its natural resources, and its abundance with fellow beings and fellow creatures.”
Another moment profoundly illustrated the everlasting love that truly binds all of humankind together. The family of former President of India, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, came for Amma’s darshan.
Dr Kalam, born and raised in a Muslim family in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, studied physics and aerospace engineering. He was a visionary leader and an ardent admirer of Amma who carried a long-standing connection with the Mata Amritanandamayi Math. In a remarkable gesture of support, he donated his first ten months’ salary as President towards Amma’s humanitarian projects.
On his passing in 2015, Amma paid tribute, saying, “He had only goodness in his heart. His physical presence is not with us anymore. Dr Kalam is not somebody who can be confined to the pages of history just as one of the former Presidents of the Nation. His high thinking and his pure lifestyle will always inspire us and will keep spreading fragrance all around.”
In this way, Amma’s two days in Madurai unfolded with her own expression of love, compassion, and unity for all who arrived. She again distributed clothing and financial assistance to members of AmritaSREE, our self-help group initiative for women across India.
“We barely have time to think about our own children, our parents, or our loved ones. In these challenging times, here is someone who constantly thinks about her children. Amma is a divine gift to all of us,” said RB Udhaya Kumar, MLA, Tirupparankundram, in his address on the second day of programs.
“Her initiatives are reaching across countries and continents, bringing hope and relief to people worldwide. May her compassionate touch continue to uplift more lives across the globe.”
Many other inspiring people joined Amma as distinguished guests. On day one, they included D Rajan Chellappa, MLA, Thiruparankundram; Sanjay Rai IRS, Chief Commissioner of Income Tax; N Jagatheesan, President, Chamber of Commerce; and Rama Sreenivasan, State Secretary, BJP.
Day two was also graced by the presence of Swami Paramanandji and Swami Adhyatmanandji, Sri Ramakrishna Tapovanam; K Manikkam, Former MLA; Captain Arjun Menon, Commanding Officer, Indian Naval Ship Parundu Rameshwaram; and Premalatha, Mahatma Educational Institution.
The events continued with meditation sessions and bhajans led by Amma, culminating in her darshan, as devotees received her grace in an atmosphere filled with happiness, gratitude, and reverence. Beginning at 11am each day, Amma did not finish embracing people until midnight on day one and on day two, after 1:30am the following morning.
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Amma’s next South India Tour stop is February 17&18 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu’s capital. She will lead public programs at the Ashram to celebrate its Brahmasthanam Temple’s 35th anniversary.
