Brahmasthanam Mahotsava starts in Mangaluru

Mangaluru: The Brahmasthanam Mahotsava at Mata Amritanandamayi Math, Boloor, began on Thursday.

Addressing devotees at the math, Sadguru Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, popularly known as Amma, called upon people to live with greater humility, compassion and reverence towards nature. Humanity should learn to live in cooperation with fellow humans, together with nature and in communion with God, Amma said.

On pandemic, natural disasters and climate change, she said these were reminders for humans to rethink its relationship with nature. While negotiations and compromises may work in conflict, they won’t work with nature, she said. She suggested that approaching nature with humility, devoid of arrogance, with a bowed head and a heart filled with friendliness and reverence is the only effective method with nature.

True existence, Amma said, is built on human awareness about collectively sharing the Earth, its natural resources and abundance with fellow beings and creatures.

Union minister for food and public distribution, Pralhad Joshi, graced the event as the chief guest. On the occasion, Joshi said that Amma’s work extended beyond spirituality, and has touched several areas of social life.

Assembly speaker UT Khader said that spiritual strength had lasting value and could help those in public life address the problems faced by society.

The programme was attended by Swami Jitakamananda, president, Ramakrishna Math, MP Captain Brijesh Chowta, Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna and former minister Pramod Madhwaraj.

Honorary president Y Sanath Hegde addressed the gathering and shared the positive experiences and transformations he witnessed in his life as a devotee of Amma.

Alongside, the math launched and supported several welfare initiatives, including assistance for children undergoing cardiac surgeries, financial support for 1,200 AmritaSREE self-help group members, a seaweed cultivation project for coastal livelihoods, and a mental health awareness initiative led by AYUDH Mangaluru.

The festival also featured special pujas, darshan, volunteer-led service activities, a free medical camp, annadanam and other facilities for devotees from Karnataka and neighbouring states.