What is the meaning of the term “Self Realization”? Otherwise know as enlightenment or liberation, Self- Realization is the realization that one’s True Self is not the limited mortal body, mind, intellect, but the eternal, blissful consciousness that pervades all creation. When one truly recognizes one’s own Self in all beings, one becomes an embodiment of peace, love and compassion capable of uplifting the world.

What is a mantra? A mantra is a sacred verbal formula repeated in prayer or meditation. The chanting of mantras helps to open the heart chakra and creates an uplifting and meditative atmosphere for inner communion and one-pointedness of mind. There are several Sanskrit mantras that one may hear at Amma’s programs such as:

Aum (also written Om): According to the Vedas, the ancient scriptures of India, Aum is the symbol for the Absolute Reality, or God. It is also the first syllable in many mantras.

Om Amriteswaryai Namaha: “I bow to that Supreme Energy, which is Immortal Bliss”.

Om Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu: “May all beings everywhere be happy.”

Om Namaha Shivaya: “Salutations to the Absolute”. This is also used as an everyday personal greeting to remind us to honor the Divine in each other.

Mantra - During Devi Bhava darshan, it is possible to receive a mantra from Amma. The opportunity to receive a mantra from a Self- Realized Master is a rare blessing that can be of tremendous benefit in our spiritual life. Information about receiving a mantra will be distributed during the Devi Bhava program.

What is Devi Bhava? Literally translated as “the mood of the Divine Mother,” Devi Bhava is a very special event that celebrates the feminine aspect of God, and God’s unconditional love and compassion for all humanity. It is a traditional, joyful celebration when Amma gives darshan as the Divine Mother in the manner symbolized by the Hindu tradition.

The evening commences with an Atma Puja, a ceremony to promote peace and well being for the whole world. In honor of the Divine Self that dwells in all, the Atma Puja includes a spiritual talk by Amma, a powerful ceremony that involves chanting the names of Devi (the Divine Mother), and the distribution of holy water blessed by Amma to all attendees. Following the puja, Amma offers her darshan to everyone present typically into the early hours of the morning! Once everyone has been received, Amma blesses all participants by showering flower petals on those gathered in a poignant conclusion to the program.

What language does Amma speak? Amma speaks Malayalam, the language of her native state, Kerala; however, she understands the heartfelt thoughts behind all languages. Therefore, communication with her can be through our inner resolve, in silence, or through prayer.

What is Prasad? Prasad is a Sanskrit term describing “God’s gift,” and it is infused with Amma’s spiritual energy. After your darshan, Amma will hand you prasad in the form of a sweet, often wrapped in a flower petal. Sometimes Amma will offer vibhuti, or sacred ash, as a gift as well. In North America a chocolate candy is sometimes given, in keeping with a tradition that dates back to the first Western tour in 1987. In India, hard candy is offered as chocolate would quickly melt!

What is the appropriate dress around Amma? In honor of the sacredness of the occasion, people dress modestly in the presence of Amma. However, Amma understands that dress customs in the West are much more relaxed that in India.

Why do the devotees around Amma wear white? White is a symbol of purity and peace. Therefore, some seekers wear it as a reminder of their spiritual goal, but there is no requirement to do so.

Why do people touch their heads to the floor? Humility is an important quality in spiritual life, and bowing down is an outward expression of the desire to go beyond the ego. Lowering the head below the heart represents the surrender of self-importance and pride.

What is pada puja?  At the beginning of every darshan program, Amma is welcomed to the hall with a pada puja. This traditional ceremony involves worship of the feet, or pada, of the spiritual teacher who is grounded in the ultimate Truth. By honoring one who is established in Supreme Love, we are invited to awaken that same Love within ourselves.