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Amrita Vidyalayam

The Amritavidyalayam in Kodungallur, Kerala, was Amma's first school. It opened in 1987. Now there are more than 49 similar temples of learning throughout India, providing top-class primary and secondary education.

Nothing can match the blessedness of being an Amrita child, under the care of Amma's infinite love and compassion. Amrita Vidyalayams are schools based on Amma's ideology that, in their formative years, children should be allowed to evolve naturally and unforced. No experience a child undergoes is inconsequential; each one leaves a long-lasting impression on its psyche. And to be receptive, the child needs to be relaxed in an ambience of love and affection. Throughout the world, the present systems of education inhibit creativity and have become lopsided, with too much emphasis on materialism.

Amma wants the children to have the best possible education—an education that helps them to develop physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. It's also crucial that they are exposed to the India's vibrant, ancient culture, and are made aware of their inner potential. This will better equip them to face life's challenges and to remain calm in all adversities. As Amma says, "Gaining mastery over the mind is the real education." Children are the world's wealth, and how we guide and train them will make or mar their future.

The schools are all taught in English and follow the CBSE syllabus. For a second language, the students can either study their native tongue or Sanskrit. Perhaps most importantly, the schools provide a training ground for learning the "Art and Science of Right Living." Students imbibe qualities such as obedience, humility, compassion, righteousness, fortitude, optimism, self-confidence, fearlessness and patriotism.

The students are encouraged to develop a responsible attitude towards themselves, their school and society at large. The Science of Living and meditation classes are conducted at all schools. Sanskrit chants, bhajans and yoga are integral parts of the curriculum.

In the ancient times, students were taught what life was really about. They were taught how to live their lives and how to conduct themselves in the world. They developed strong minds and could easily withstand hardships or face any obstacles. They were dedicated to Truth and were not afraid of death.

Amma wants to make the youth of India into "lion cubs." With this in mind, She has established Amrita Vidyalayams all over the country—schools were children can develop into their fullest potential.

"The future of the world lies in the hands of the younger generation. Our children are the flowers of tomorrow. They should spread their fragrance and beauty throughout the world. But everywhere, these flowers are in danger of falling prey to worms before they can fully blossom. Tempted into addictions of every kind, subject to pressures on all sides, they wither and even destroy themselves."

For more information: vidyalayam.amrita.edu