Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri travelled across the US to share Amma’s message of universal love, infinite compassion and global unity during today’s challenging times. From August 12 to September 1, he inspired people in nine cities who took part in public programs and spiritual retreats.
Though humanity faces crises from war to economic insecurity to climate change, Swamiji brought hope with the theme “Coping in an Uncertain World”. In each city, he expressed profound insights to help stay centered amidst the chaos and approach increasingly complex challenges with clarity and purposeful action.
As Amma’s most senior disciple, Swamiji joined her Ashram in the 1970s and has traveled the world with her since 1987. He is a shining example of a life surrendered to the Guru (spiritual master).
“God doesn’t believe in delivering speeches. He doesn’t speak much. God believes in silence, action, and implementation,” said Swamiji in his address in Austin, Texas, sharing Amma’s mission of compassion in action.
A spiritual luminary of our times, Swamiji also guides many of Amma’s humanitarian initiatives, including work for sustainable development, environmental responsibility, gender equity, and youth empowerment.
Swamiji was accompanied by Swami Dayamritananda Puri and Brahmachari Ramanandamrita Chaitanya, two of Amma’s disciples who lead her initiatives and Ashrams in North America.
Together, they united participants to reach out to those who are suffering in their communities. As Amma often says, our highest, most important duty in this world is to help our fellow beings. Through positive action, all of humankind and nature are uplifted.
“Life follows set principles and unchangeable laws unlike manmade rules. The law of God or nature is subtle and mysterious. They are inaccessible to human logic. And these laws apply equally to everyone, regardless of where they live or what they do,” he said.
“In other words, we may call it karma or dharma. It follows you, whether you deny it or accept it. You are under that law.”
Swamiiji’s public programs were rich with practical wisdom for all, while the retreats provided a more intimate space to delve into his interpretations of verses from the Bhagavad Gita.
Attendees also had the special opportunity to ask questions, which were thoughtfully answered by Swamiji, Swami Dayamritananda, and Br Ramanandamrita.
Adding to the joy, Swamiji wholeheartedly joined in the retreat games, sparking much laughter and delight among participants. This was especially the case in Chicago where a retreat was held for AYUDH, our youth wing.
The tour evoked fond memories of Amma’s own visits, bringing satsang families together in the spirit of seva, community, and devotion. It also served as a warm welcome to people who have never met Amma.
As Swamiji departed the US to return to Amritapuri, many shared that their vision of the world expanded from one of fear to one of courage. Reflecting upon Amma’s teachings of selfless love, they are ready to face our current world as candles that bring the light of relief to those around them.
Swamiji’s Tour Stops
Tue Aug 12: Charlotte, NC – Public Program
Wed Aug 13: Orlando, FL – Public Program
Fri Aug 15 & Sat Aug 16: Washington, DC – Public Program & Retreat
Sun Aug 17: New Jersey – Event with Kerala Hindus of North America
Tue Aug 19: Austin, TX – Public Program
Wed Aug 20: Minneapolis, MN – Public Program
Fri Aug 22: Chicago, IL – AYUDH Retreat
Sat Aug 23 & Sun Aug 24: Chicago, IL – Public Program & Retreat
Wed Aug 27: Denver, CO – Public Program
Fri Aug 29 & Sat Aug 30: San Ramon, CA – Public Program & Retreat
Sun Aug 31 & Mon Sept 01: Los Angeles, CA – Public Program & Retreat
