Mata Amritanandamayi

Mata Amritanandamayi (born September 27, 1953), known affectionately as 'Amma' or 'The Hugging Saint,' is an Indian spiritual leader, humanitarian, and mystic who has become one of the most widely respected spiritual figures globally. Born in a fishing village in Kerala, she claimed spiritual awakening experiences in childhood and began gaining followers in the 1970s through her practice of embracing devotees, which became her signature spiritual practice. She founded the Mata Amritanandamayi Math, a large charitable organization that operates hospitals, schools, orphanages, and disaster relief programs across India and internationally. Her organization has aided countless disaster victims, provided education and healthcare to the poor, and engaged in environmental conservation efforts. Amma has been recognized by the United Nations and various international organizations for her humanitarian work, and she has spoken before the UN General Assembly. Despite being a non-traditional spiritual leader without formal theological training, her message of universal love and compassionate action has resonated across cultural and religious boundaries, attracting followers from diverse backgrounds worldwide. Her life exemplifies the contemporary spiritual movement that combines traditional spirituality with social activism.