27 Sep 2024, Amritapuri – Amritavarsham 71
Amma’s 71st birthday celebration at Amritapuri was marked by simplicity, deep spiritual significance, and the loving bond of millions of devotees with their beloved Amma. The event began with Amma’s arrival at 9 am, greeted by thousands of devotees. Her presence radiated grace as she led prayers for the victims of the recent landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, and those suffering from global calamities and wars.
Amma announced that the funds typically used for the Amritavarsham celebration would be redirected towards disaster recovery efforts in Wayanad, pledging ₹15 crores ($1.8 million) to support survivors and bolster disaster resilience in the region. {news}
Following the Paduka Puja, Amma delivered her birthday message, touching on the importance of peace, love, and unity in today’s turbulent world. She spoke about the need for introspection, compassion, and selflessness in a world that often values material growth over human and environmental well-being. {news}
For over 30 years, all 13 Karayogams (local social groups) of Alappad Panchayat have upheld the tradition of offering their respects to Amma on her birthday. This year, the sacred procession began at the Parayakkadav Sree Ponnabhagavathy Temple and culminated at the Ashram, where they offered the Purnakumbham to Amma.
The CRPF 247 Battalion, the military unit responsible for Amma’s personal security, and the Kerala Police also presented a memento to Amma on this auspicious occasion, expressing their deep respect and admiration for her.
Amma awarded the prestigious Amrita Keerti Puraskaram to the eminent poet and scholar Prof. V. Madhusoodanan Nair, recognizing his outstanding contribution to literature. His works, which blend Vedic philosophy with modern imagery, were honored during the ceremony. {news}
Free marriage ceremonies were conducted for impoverished couples. Amma provided each couple with jewelry and traditional wedding attire for both the bride and groom. {news}
As part of the celebrations, new spiritual books were released, offering seekers a deeper understanding of Amma’s teachings and the timeless wisdom of Sanatana Dharma. Among them:
- Amritaragam by Swami Pranavamritananda Puri, a commentary on the first eight mantras of Amma’s 108 names.
- Satyam Sanatanam, a compilation of Amma’s teachings in English, presented by Swami Jnanamritananda Puri.
- Ocean of Grace Volume 4, a compilation of ashram residents’ satsangs.
- Pearls from the Infinite Wisdom – Volume 2 by Swami Amritachitswarupananda, which offers insights on living freely and being centered in our true nature.
As with previous years, the best Matruvani Pracharaks were awarded for their dedicated service in spreading Amma’s teachings.
The day was further enlivened by group performances, including a classical rendition of Saint Thyagaraja’s Jagadananda Karaka and a graceful dance performed by ashram residents during Amma’s darshan.
Amma tirelessly gave darshan until 4 am, embracing and blessing all those present. Her birthday, true to its essence, was a celebration of selfless giving and love, as Amma continues to inspire and uplift the hearts of millions around the world. An ideal birthday celebration of endless giving and joy.
