7-11 July, Oakland, CA -America Yatra 2024
Amma’s four-day darshan program in Oakland marked a significant highlight of America Yatra 2024. After a gap of four years, thousands gathered with joyful anticipation in the San Francisco Bay Area to welcome Amma, who was accorded a grand reception at the Oakland Marriott City Center.
The festivities included a traditional Kerala panchavadyam to welcome Amma, featuring rhythmic drumming and music, creating a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of Amma’s homeland. The program was a blend of spiritual activities and cultural celebrations, reflecting the diverse community that came together for this special occasion.
Each day, Amma led meditation sessions and prayers for world peace and harmony, offering solace and guidance to the gathered devotees. A three-day spiritual retreat allowed participants to spend more time with Amma, seeking her wisdom on navigating the complexities of modern life.
Brahmachari Sachinmayamrita Chaitanya, addressing the gathering, emphasized the teachings of the Upanishads and the unfathomable wisdom of Mahatmas like Amma. “For the truly enlightened, this world is indeed one all-pervasive divinity. They clearly see that, like the dreams we have each night, this cosmos arises in them, is sustained in them, and ultimately resolves back into them alone—into the one True Self, the Atma,” he shared.
Brahmachari Satvamrita Chaitanya spoke about living a life centered in love, drawing from his many years with Amma. “Amma is the shining example of living a life centered in love. It is love that is the foundation of a true spiritual life—both the path and the goal. This path of transformation that Amma offers allows us to find our true selves through uplifting the world around us,” he explained.
The retreat featured cultural performances, including a heartfelt play by devotees from the local MA Center in San Ramon. They shared their experiences of staying connected during COVID-19 through the launch of Food From Home, a project that delivered meals with love, and spiritual gatherings via online video.
On the final day of the retreat, Amma personally served prasad to thousands of devotees, a gesture that deeply touched everyone present. The celebration included a traditional Punjabi dance, with a Bhangra performance that especially stole hearts, expressing gratitude and joy for Amma’s presence.
Amma’s darshan sessions were marked by her patient listening and offering of consolation to all, reaffirming her role as a beacon of love and support.
After concluding the four-day program in Oakland, Amma and her tour group are set to travel to Los Angeles for the next leg of America Yatra 2024.
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