Full Name and Common Aliases

Mata Amritanandamayi, affectionately known as Amma, is a revered spiritual leader and humanitarian. Her full name is Sudhamani Idamannel, but she is widely recognized by her followers as "Amma," which means "Mother" in many Indian languages. She is also referred to as the "Hugging Saint" due to her unique practice of embracing people from all walks of life as a form of spiritual blessing.

Birth and Death Dates

Mata Amritanandamayi was born on September 27, 1953. As of the latest available information, she is alive and continues to inspire millions around the world with her teachings and humanitarian efforts.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Amma is of Indian nationality. She is a spiritual leader, humanitarian, and author. Her work transcends traditional religious boundaries, and she is known for her teachings on love, compassion, and selfless service. Amma is the founder of the Mata Amritanandamayi Math, a global network of spiritual and charitable organizations.

Early Life and Background

Amma was born in the small fishing village of Parayakadavu, now known as Amritapuri, in the state of Kerala, India. She was the third of seven children in a humble family. From a young age, Amma exhibited a deep sense of spirituality and compassion. Despite facing numerous challenges, including poverty and societal expectations, she was drawn to the divine and spent much of her childhood in meditation and prayer.

Her early life was marked by acts of kindness and empathy. Amma would often gather food scraps from her family's kitchen to feed the hungry and care for the sick in her community. Her innate ability to connect with others and alleviate their suffering laid the foundation for her future role as a spiritual leader and humanitarian.

Major Accomplishments

Amma's life is a testament to the power of love and selfless service. She has embraced over 39 million people worldwide, offering solace and spiritual guidance through her hugs. Her humanitarian initiatives are vast and varied, addressing issues such as poverty, education, healthcare, and disaster relief.

In 1981, Amma established the Mata Amritanandamayi Math, which has since grown into a global network of charitable organizations. The Math operates hospitals, schools, orphanages, and environmental programs, among other initiatives. Amma's efforts have been recognized internationally, earning her numerous awards and honors, including the Gandhi-King Award for Non-Violence in 2002.

Notable Works or Actions

Amma's teachings are encapsulated in her numerous books and discourses, which emphasize the importance of love, compassion, and selfless service. Her message transcends religious and cultural boundaries, resonating with people from diverse backgrounds.

One of her notable actions is the "Embracing the World" initiative, a global network of charitable projects aimed at alleviating human suffering. This initiative has provided disaster relief in various parts of the world, including aid to victims of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2015 Nepal earthquake.

Amma's commitment to education is evident in the establishment of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, a multi-campus university in India that offers a wide range of academic programs and is known for its emphasis on research and innovation.

Impact and Legacy

Amma's impact on the world is profound and far-reaching. Her teachings and humanitarian efforts have inspired millions to lead lives of compassion and service. Through her embrace, she has touched the hearts of people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of unity and love.

Her legacy is not only in the tangible projects and institutions she has established but also in the countless lives she has transformed through her message of love and selflessness. Amma's work continues to inspire a global movement of volunteers and followers dedicated to making the world a better place.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Amma is widely quoted and remembered for her profound insights into the human condition and her unwavering commitment to love and service. Her quotes often reflect her deep understanding of spirituality and the interconnectedness of all beings. She is remembered as a beacon of hope and compassion in a world often fraught with division and suffering.

Her ability to convey complex spiritual truths in simple, relatable terms makes her teachings accessible to a broad audience. Amma's life and work serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of love and the potential for each individual to make a positive impact on the world.