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February 2018, Camp at Smt Vishala & Sri Ramaraju Poranki’s Residence, San Ramon, CA

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February 6 – March 19, 2018
Amma’s Visit to
Northern California , U.S.A.
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Sri Vasudevananda Swamy Trust
Naidupeta, Nellore Dt.,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
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February 25-27, 2018: Amma was welcomed by Smt Vishala & Sri Ramaraju Poranki to their home in San Ramon, California.
Amma and the entourage left the Mekas home in San Jose after the morning worship on February 25th and before heading to the Porankis’ home first stopped at the home of Smt Chandana & Sri Srinivas Talluri’s home in San Ramon, California for a special event.???

The Talluris made extensive preparation and elaborate and tasteful decorations throughout their home to receive Amma for the sacred Ashtalakshmi puja celebration. The beauty of the decoration was very much a reflection of the artistic talent and the loving devotion of the couple. Each of the eight devotees who was welcomed to take up the role of the specific aspect of Lakshmi was appropriately decorated and honored with full rituals of worship. There was also a very delicious feast marking the festive occasion.

Here are a few pictures of the welcoming scene when Amma arrived at the home of the Talluris.?

The blessed and devoted host family.?

Here is the line up of the Ashtalakshmis with all their Divine Beauty.?

This was also a wonderful photo op for the families attending the event.?

The day was festive and the air was filled with much love and laughter.?

Talluris have beautifully set up a large private room upstairs for Amma to dine and rest. And the doors to the room were beautified as entrance to Vaikunta, the heavenly abode. The area for Amma’s seating and the rest of the room were also tastefully decorated with the theme of the day.?

Vaikunta Dwaara (Doors to the Heaven)?

Appreciating the decor.??

For the host family it was a blessed and exhilarating event even though a bit exhausting

Just a glimpse is enough!?

Ashtalakshmis being served with the feast.?

And everyone in attendance get their fill in the beautifully set up backyard.?

Some Lakshmis were even served with the tea.??

Ashtalakshmis with Sri Mahavishnu Himself??

Later in the afternoon the Talluris arranged a wonderful music and dance program in a well laid out backyard set up, entertaining Amma and the Ashtalakshmis.?

And here are the highlights of the dance program.☀

Later in the evening Amma arrived at the Poranki family home which is also in San Ramon. The host family made a beautiful seating arrangement for Amma with a elegant backdrop that included a lovely painting of Sri Sitha Mahayogini.?
February 26, 2018 – At the Porankis’ home the program started early in the morning with worship and Abhishekam.
The family was very pleased to have Amma bless the silver Paadukaas they bought.
Amma also stepped into the kitchen to help with some special delicacies. ???

The beautiful altar set up???

The program concluded with Mangala Arathi??

Sometime in the morning yours truly and a young man and an ardent devotee of Amma, Sri Giri Sripathy (a Hollywood producer on rise) were blessed to celebrate our birthday in Amma’s divine presence. With the generosity of well wising devotees stranding a cake and fruit bouquet it turned out to be a very memorable celebration as Amma herself gotten into the act.???

After the morning worship program on February 27th, Amma and the entourage traveled south to San Jose .??

February 2018, Camp at Smt Rajani and Sri Ravi Kiran Meka’s Residence, San Jose, CA

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February 6 – March 19, 2018
Amma’s Visit to
Northern California , U.S.A.
?
Sri Vasudevananda Swamy Trust
Naidupeta, Nellore Dt.,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
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February 22, 2018 – After the morning worship at the Naidus’ home in Stockton, CA Amma and the entourage headed to San Jose to be welcomed by Smt Rajani and Sri Ravi Kiran Meka to their home.???

Evening devotion program concluded with Mangala Arathi ?

Following the conclusion of the devotion program Amma blessed the congregation with uplifting spiritual discourse.?

Amma stayed at the Mekas’ home for the next couple of days with a couple of brief excursions to the devotees’ homes nearby.

February 23, 2018 – Amma blessed Smt Radha and Sri Jawahar by visiting their home just a stones throw away.?

The Mekas welcome back Amma.??

Amma is being playful distributing snacks to the devotees in his private chambers.?

In the evening, Amma especially engaged the younger generation with quizzes, games, stories to enlighten them on cardinal principles of righteous living; and, it was done amidst the environment evoking much laughter and joy.

February 24, 2018 – after the morning worship program at the Meka’s Amma made an unscheduled visit to the home of Smt Kausalya and Sri Shyam Uppalapati who also live nearby. Amma made the visit especially to bless Shyam who recently underwent surgery from a bad fall.

Entering the Uppalapatis home?

Sharing light refreshments with the Divine??

Back to the Meka’s home.?

Loving the children — it’s natural, it’s mutual?

Sri Pavan Jella of San Ramon, CA came with his family seeking blessings for his birthday — blessings sure he received as evidenced by the sacred Vibhuti smeared on his face by Amma.?

Later in the afternoon children gathered around Amma in the backyard for fun and games; something that they look forward to, and Amma never disappoints them.

Evening Arathi ??

On the day Amma arrived at the Mekas (February 22, 2918), Amma also visited the home of Smt Sukanya Sundara Raman. The family was blessed to do Paada Puja and serve lunch to Amma and the devotees.

February 2018, Camp at Smt.Uma & Sri.Ratan Naidu Garu’s Residence, Stockton, CA

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February 17 – February 22, 2018
Amma’s Visit to Smt.Uma & Sri.Ratan Naidu Garu’s Residence, Stockton, CA
Northern California , U.S.A.
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It was February 17th night that Amma left Smt Pallavi and Sri Dr.Raghunath Reddy’s home and arrived at the beautiful home of Smt Uma and Sri Ratan Naidu’s home nearby also within Stockton, California. Anyone who visited the Naidus home will agree that it may be more apt to call their home a temple; the home reverberates with spiritual energy from nearly three decades of bhajans and satsangs held regularly in the beautiful Mandir of worship that they have setup in their home.???

Amma is very much at home at the Naidus home.?

The next morning as the worship program was underway in the Mandir in the lower level the hostess has appealed Amma to wear and bless the new jewelry that she acquired. With some coaxing Amma agreed; whenever Amma does jewelry or does a saree you feel blessed at the sight as it lets you witness the true Divine form of Amma as Sri Rajarajeswari Devi.?

Amma joined the worship program underway in the Mandir and helped with the Alankaram (decoration of the deities). When it comes to Alankaram Amma is the Master; and however much guidance and coaching Amma gives one always feels inadequate to raise to the level of Amma’s mastery.?

The morning worship program concluded with Mangala Arathi.?

Amma is truly the Divine Mother Annapurna Devi, always eager to cook and feed her children whether it is at the Ashram in India or in travels abroad.
Besides the large kitchen in the home the Naidus have also set up in their garage a large commercial style cooking facility with all amenities for special event food preparation when cooking is done on a large scale. After the morning worship Amma walked into the kitchen to give a helping hand; well… Amma just took over. With the culinary mastery Amma possesses it is like seeing creativity in play with Amma as the grand Conductor. At times it is hard to keep up with Amma’s pace even in just assisting with fetching materials or cutting and preparing the vegetables. Nevertheless it is a joy fest filled with fun and laughter as Amma pokes fun at a targeted few. Amma’s quick humor keeps any event very lively.

Forgive me if I do not recall all of the delicacies made on the day. Besides the okra curry, Amma made the some really delicious organic cookies; Amma has especially commissioned my two nieces from Canada to help with baking them, and they loved it.?

It was the pleasant privilege of the hostess Smt Uma to serve food to her Sweet Lord.

February 19-20, 2018 – Amma’s visits to the Naidus home are also occasions for spiritual musical fest, what we devotees fondly call “Fiji Dhamaka”, for the soul elevating and at times LOUD music. Join me in reliving the thrilling experience.???

A very moving introduction to the evening’s musical program by the host Sri Ratan Naidu (Amma fondly calls him Ratan Lal) is truly more of a heartfelt expression of his love and devotion to Amma.?

Everyone was looking for the grand finale of Raas Leela to partake in the Divine dance of same old Gopala of the Dwapara yuga in our midst Amma to show his fancy footwork. Amma didn’t diappoint the crowd as he joined on the last dance; it was truly Divine and feast to the eyes.??

February 19, 2018 – Morning worship underway at the Naidus’ home in Stockton, California.???

Amma relaxes awhile in the family room of the Naidus home before we head on to visit the Motel of Sri Anish Prakash for a private ceremony.?

Soon we arrived at the Red Roof Inn of Sri Anish Prakash in Elk Grove, less than an hour away North of Stockton, California. At Amma’s behest Anish is undertaking a purification ceremony of the facility involving homa and other sacred acts of worship; Amma

Anish was overwhelmed for Amma’s grace and love as Amma presided over the long ceremony. ?

The purification ceremony begins…

The blessed couple Smt Fatima and Sri Anish Prakash completed the sacred purification ceremony as Sri Seshagiri Rao conducted the worship under the loving watchful eyes of our Beloved Amma.?

After the completion of the special ceremony at the Red Roof Inn Amma and the entourage was welcomed by the Prakashs to their home for the sacred Saptarishi Puja in the evening that they planned at Amma’s directive. ?

Welcoming to their home.???

It was already late in the day, and the host family quickly served the lunch to Amma in the private quarters upstairs while rest of us enjoyed the delicious lunch in the lower level.
There is truly no rest for God; as much as we tried to give some room for Amma to rest the restless God found it is better spending time in playful pranks.??

The pretend sleep???

… and the playful Lord.??

Watching the arrival of devotees for the evening function.

The host family has well planned to undertake this elaborate worship by bringing all the necessary items to gift to the Saptarishis and their holy consorts, much of it from India; lucky are the devotee couples who have been chosen to represent these sages and their wives.
Here is the list of the Saptarishis and their consorts who were the center of adoration and worship for the evening:
❤Kasyapa – Aditi & Diti
❤Atri – Anusuya
❤Bharadvaja – Susheela
❤Viswamitra – Kumudvathi
❤Gautama – Ahalya
❤Jamadagni – Renuka
❤Vasistha – Arundhati
The elaborate ceremonial worship began with the welcoming and seating of each of the holy sages along with their pious wives (of devotee couples who took the sacred roles for the evening). It was the good fortune of these couples that not only Amma presided the sacred event but even went around to do individual makeup touches. The gracious hosts along with their children went around paying individual attention to each of the noble couples, by washing their feet, smearing them with turmeric and vermillion and offering flowers and garlanding them. Among the sacred gifts that the sages and their consorts received were a darbha mat, danda, silver kamandalam, and a copy of a scripture; they also were gifted with a saree and a dhoti.
During the ceremony Amma gave a short talk on the significance of honoring the saptarishis (seven sages), and Amma underscored the benefits and merits that the hosts will accrue.?????

Here are a couple of links for more details on this sacred tradition of the Saptarishi worship.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saptarishi
https://jajisarmablog.wordpress.com/2016/04/19/జ్ఞాన-ప్రదాతలు-సప్తఋషులు/amp/

While the Saptarishi worship continued in full swing on one side, quietly Amma began to get started on something in the public eye although only a few paid any attention and understood what was about to happen.
Amma went in to the family’s puja Mandir (worship room) adjoining the hall and brought out the beautiful small idol of Lord Subrahmanya (Kartikeya) and began doing Alankaram (decoration). Over a year ago Amma created this beautiful idol for Anish during his visit to the Ashram; ever since Anish and family have been worshipping it placed on the altar of their puja room. Amma carried the idol back to the puja room and conducted a full ceremonial worship of the idol including Anish’s parents since the host family was fully engaged in the Saptarishi puja. It was amazing to watch Amma carry on the full length of worship, and in a way instilled more spiritual energy into the idol. What a blessing!???

The spectacular, special and sacred worship of Lord Subrahmanya concluded.???

Amma was truly pleased at how well the special worship ceremony of Saptarishis was conducted.?

The one thing that you can surely bet on is when the devotees invoke the Divine Love the response is a stream of the sacred Vibhuti that flows from Amma.?????

The long worship ceremony continued into the late hours of the evening.

Amma also charged me with the responsibility of documenting the pictures of the devotee couples who took up the sacred roles of Saptarishis and blessed the host family and all those who attended the function. Here is the cast…?

Dinner was arranged for Amma in the private quarters in the upper level while the rest of us enjoyed the sumptuous feast in the lower level. You would rarely find Amma eating alone; even if he starts alone the moment Amma sees the opportunity to share with others there is no stopping Amma. Today it was the good fortune of the family and children of the extended family and close friends to enjoy the blessed Prasad from Amma.?

The last picture for the night – group photo of the Saptarishi couples and the host family with Amma. Apologize for the poor composition of the picture. I assure you that Amma is there in the center; unfortunately from my vantage point it was hard to capture all present including Amma. Seeing my struggle Amma did the best Amma could — just push his head forward; check the last picture.??

February 20, 2018 – Home of Smt Uma & Sri Ratan Naidu, Stockton, California, USA.?
The morning worship program continued as scheduled.

Sitting on the staircase leading to Amma’s private quarters Sri Sridhar of Folsom, California and Sri Prakash of India are playing Dwaarapalakaas (Guards to the heavenly doors). In real life they are son-in-law and father-in-law; I say, they are disqualified on that basis alone if not on the basis of inadequate skills.?

When Amma sees little children you can clearly see those floodgates of Motherly Love swing wide open.?

The Naidu family has arranged for a special treat for the evening satsang program – recitation and singing of an episode from the sacred text of Tulsidas Ramayan, with live commentary from a well respected pandit of the area.???

The program began with beautiful recitation of Hanuman Chalisa in adoration of Lird Hanuman.???

The program for the evening came to a close with the singing of the glory of Sri Rama.??

February 21, 2018 – Home of Smt Uma & Sri Ratan Naidu, Stockton, California, USA.?

Early in the morning Smt Uma Naidu carried a small flask of milk to serve as morning beverage for Amma. Smt Jhansi Tumu and Smt Prasuna Reddy were also there who came into Amma’s chambers to do padanamaskar. I was at the door attending to the phone call of a devotee. All of a sudden I heard a little commotion coming out of Amma’s room; still on the call I rushed in. Miracle of miracles! The three ladies in the room had their palms outstretched as to my utter amazement Amma started pouring out a continuous stream of large amount of the fragrant Gandham (Sandlewood powder) out of the flask. I too jumped into the action with an outstretched arm and received palmful of Gandham as well. Surprisingly the inner surface of the flask’s cap still had drops of milk clinging to it, yet the powder that came out and the inside of the flask were utterly dry. ?

The flask was full of Gandham powder; what was placed next to the flask is only a small fraction belonging to one of the recipients.??

After the morning worship the host family along with other key members of the project invited Amma to come and bless and give guidance for the Siva-Vishnu temple under construction. The Naidu family is one of the key founders of the sacred undertaking. Over nearly three years of the project the Naidus have brought the vision, involved in planning of construction, fund raising, and spent long hours of hands-on labor; and, dedicated themselves to bring their vision to reality. They were literally consumed with their love and passion for the sacred project even at the risk of putting the priorities of their personal life in the back burner. Rare indeed are such dedicated families who raise to the occasion to serve the larger good of their communities.?????

Amma about to enter the Siva-Vishnu temple, Stockton, California.?

Amma patiently walked around the facility and gave many specifics pointers to bring the temple structure to fully comply with the Aagama Shastra (the scripture that details the principles of Hindu temple construction).?

It is at times like these when Amma can discuss such details of scriptural aspects of temple construction or when Amma converses with seasoned priests about the intricate details of various worship ceremonies one would be awestruck at the depth and breadth of the age old wisdom despite Amma’s lack of any formal education in any of these areas. Of course if one realizes that for the ageless Amma who is the source of all eternal wisdom it is no surprise at all that He is the KNOWER OF ALL.

Beautiful temple architecture with authentic Hindu temple motif.

Before we returned to the host family’s residence Amma took on a short detour to the beautiful creek nearby giving everyone the much needed exercise.

The final sto before we returned to the Naidus home.??

February 2018, Camp at Smt.Pallavi & Sri.Raghunath Reddy Garu’s Residence, Stockton, CA

February 16-17, 2018 – Amma’s stay at the Reddy’s home, Stockton, California.?

February 16, 2018 – After the morning worship program at the Padakantis Amma and the entourage left to Stockton, California, a little over an hour drive and were received with the traditional Poornakumbham amidst the chanting of vedas by Smt Pallavi & Dr Raghunath Reddy to their palatial home. The host family served Amma with specially prepared dishes in the private quarters set up for Amma, and the rest of enjoyed the delicious buffet lunch in the open backyard facing the golf course.
Soon the evening worship program got underway.?

February 17, 2018 – It was a long day with rich program at the Reddys. Amma blessed the family to undertake the sacred and elaborate Ashtalakshmi Puja. The host family spared no cost in gathering all the necessary puja materials which they planned and procured while they were visiting India. Their preparation made the whole program all the more elegant besides being auspicious. The long special worship went on into late hours of afternoon, and at the conclusion the host couple personally served the ladies that presided as the Astalakshmis. ?

Amma was game in donning the crown especially brought for the worship ceremony; it was truly a feast to the eyes.??

The Ashtalakshmi puja gets underway ?

What a photo op – the Lord Mahavishnu Himself was there to bless the family along with the Ashtalakshmis — blessed indeed is the Reddy family; more health and wealth on their way!?

The evening brought a very memorable play put together by the Bay Area children with the support of the talented and devoted families of Amma. With elaborate backdrops and authentic costumes. And the large area for the stage, it was a perfect setting. Best of all the children delivered their lines and acted their roles with amazing perfection. Along with the audience Amma too was spellbound.??????

Smt Chandana and Sri Srinivas Talluri & their children who attended today’s function also took the opportunity to invited Amma for the same Ashtalakshmi puja that they have scheduled at their home in San Ramon, California within ten days. In addition to a very beautiful handmade invitation they showed Amma some samples of the materials that they have assembled for the puja.?

The evening worship program concluded with Mangala Arathi.??

Amma blessed the audience with a brief but profound spiritual talk.

The family cherishes the opportunity to serve Dinner to Amma one last time before Amma left to the next stop in Stockton, the home Smt Uma & Sri Ratan Naidu.?

February 2018, Camp at Smt.Prasuna & Sri.Krishna Reddy Garu’s Residence, Pleasanton, CA

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February 6 – March 19, 2018
Amma’s Visit to
Northern California , U.S.A.
?
Sri Vasudevananda Swamy Trust
Naidupeta, Nellore Dt.,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
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Amma’s Visit to the U.S. The blessed day was February 6th when Amma landed at the San Francisco airport bringing joy to the devotees who came to receive Amma.???

AT THE SAN FRANCISCO AIRPORT: A warm welcome to our Beloved Amma???

Welcoming Amma to our home (Prasuna & Krishna Reddy, Pleasanton, California, USA)???

January 2018 Events

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January, 2018
Sri Sri Sri
Vasudevananda Swamy Ashram
Naidupeta, Nellore Dt.,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
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“A VERY HOLY, HAPPY, HEALTHY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR”
More importantly, I want to share Amma’s New Year Message, courtesy of Sri TN Shankar who prayed Amma and Amma in her infinite compassion wrote it down – “Sri Matha, O (circle or whole)”; శ్రీ మాత, O.
The message is very profound allowing each of us to reflect, assimilate and take it to heart to practice towards making progress in our spiritual path. Sri TN Shankar has given the initial take on the message— from form to formless and cites the highest advaitic message conveyed.
Amma has forewarned before the arrival of 2017 about the tumultuous times ahead, and Amma reinforces the message and continues to caution devotees to be ever vigilant to not stray the path, adhere to one’s Dharma, stay focused on one’s goals, always respect and serve parents, love each other and not find faults in anyone.????

On this auspicious beginning of the New Year the Ashram has launched Nithya-Anna Daanam in the front area of the Ashram grounds under the benevolent glances of Lord Hanuman adjoining to the Temple Koneru (pond).
The serving of free food to the large crowd of visitors, wayfarers and those traveling along the freeway in front of the Ashram. The serving of free food started early around 10 AM, and with the New Year crowd visiting the Ashram the feeding will probably continue until 4:30 PM.???
So far 140 have been served, and the final tally might exceed 500.

All through the day Amma has been making frequent visits to the temporary stand where the Nithya-Anna Daanam (daily free food) to make sure there is sufficient food so that the next batch of food gets ready.?

Lately the Ashram has been seeing many distinguished social and political leaders; today’s visitor to come to pay respects to Amma is Sri Putha Narasimha Reddy, Ex-MLC from Kadapa, AP.?

It is truly unfortunate timing for the visitor since today being Monday Amma is observing silence (Mownam); at least he had a good Darshan.?

The hand that gives knows no bounds in giving; it is purely a flow nay a flood of love that knows no bounds.?

January 1st of the New Year (2018) started with a Big Bang as the Ashram embarked on the most audacious and noblest charitable activity that is very dear to Amma’s heart — feeding the hungry, and this is no ordinary Anna- Daanam, it is “NITHYA” Anna-Daanam. That spells feeding “every day” throughout the year. I have posted the details of this new initiative and launch in my earlier posting. At the time of this writing it is ten days since the program started, and the Ashram has been serving nearly 300 people on an average. Thanks for a band of small group of volunteers the program is going full steam ahead with fresh steaming and delicious food. ???

January 2, 2018 – I woke up in the morning and stepped outside my room to enjoy the picturesque view of the Temple. What a blessing – I caught Amma walking towards the Temple and as I called on Amma, Amma waved the blessing hand to devotees at large.?

The modest signboard of the Ashram along the highway in front of the Ashram. The Ashram also has a sign nearby announcing the daily distribution of free food.?

Ashram dog “Chitti” delivered six cute puppies – what a wonderful way to welcome the New Year.?

Amma is not a mere inspiration behind the Nithya Anna-Daanam; Amma gets into the act by cutting vegetables and in the preparation of food as well.?

The guardians and Gods of the Ashram.??

January second is the full-moon day (Pournima); nearly more than two years ago Amma instituted the wonderful tradition of holding the sacred Chandi Homa ceremony on the full-moon day of each month. Today Prasuna and I are the lucky benefactor to undertake and participate in this sacred ceremony.?

It was an unexpected treat and a real blessing when Amma did the evening Arathi. The presiding deity Sri Rajarajeswari Devi is so pleased that a couple of flowers literally jumped out as a blessing.???

January 3, 2018 – The momentum has picked up for the new Ashram initiative of Nithya Anna-Daanam. Amma is fully immersed in the program assisting in the kitchen in every which way. And Amma stays all through the 3+ hours of serving free food. Amma engages visitors with small talk about their jobs and general welfare, and ever so tenderly teaches them proper etiquette when eating.

Beautiful sunset as seen from the open air area in front of Amma’s new residential quarters atop Smt. Sudarshanamma Building.???

Presiding deities of the Ashram Temple.??

January 9-10, 2018: It is just over two years ago when Smt Malavi and Sri Phanisai of Santa Clara, Bay Area, California, USA, had their sacred marriage ceremony at the Ashram in Amma’s Divine Presence. They are here today to receive Amma’s blessings accompanied by their cute and very friendly one-year old son, Ishan. Phani Sai’s mom joined them on the visit.
Back in December 2015, here is how I described that memorable event of their wedding:
The sacred marriage ceremony of Malavi and Phanisai was held at the very auspicious early morning hours of Brahma Muhurtam (3:45 AM) in the Ashram temple. Despite an unexpected electrical outage all the guests got up early and got ready for the event. Amma graced the occasion as well. A well decorated stage and well dressed guests made it a gala celebration. Amma showered blessings on the newly weds for a happy and prosperous wedded life; and asked them to come with a present (a child) by next year?
They sure fulfilled Amma’s command.???

Little Ishan was not a least bit bothered by all the commotion of the Anna-Daanam nearby with the trucks and autos stopping by and the steady stream of hungry guests.?

As the family came to Amma’s residence to take leave Amma took the little Ishan on the lap and sang the familiar lullaby “Shuddosi Buddosi Niranjanosi, Mala-Moothra Kompalaku Marala Raakosi” (Meaning, O Ye! Eternal, wise and ever-pure, do not return again to the house (body) full of filth.)????

January 11, 2018 – The Ashram has embarked on a major revamping of the water supply system, by putting new water lines and setting up the bore-wells with auto-shutoff systems. The new setup is designed to make water supply more reliable and avoid dependency on unreliable manual control to replenish the water tanks.
As Prasuna and are winding down our 5-month long visit to India our stay at the Ashram was short. We are scheduled to return to the USA On a January 15th.???

It is one of those major festival times in India variously known as Makara Sankranthi and Pongal. And, our dearest highly creative devotee Jaynee of Singapore could not resist in using one of the pictures of Amma from more than a year ago to make a greeting card for the occasion.???

Nithya Anna-Daanam continues; and, Amma truly enjoys every moment of it.??

Presiding deities of the Ashram Temple.??

Jan 26, 2018. Blessed to be with Amma, Amma graced me to spend couple of days at Ashram. With the permission of group Admin, I am posting few pictures to share the bliss ?

While we were getting ready for Nitya Anna Daanam (daily free lunch prasaad service) there is huge tree on the way to anna daanam place, in Telugu it is called Regu kaayalu tree. Amma took us under the tree and She shook the tree branches. Blessed tree did not need any push from Amma, tree rained the fruits on all of us. We felt Fruits showered from heaven.

Amma blessed all, asked us to eat all of them…so sweet! We never knew we can eat those many fruits in a go.. very good appetizer..

Please forgive me not to mention about me yet, I am Krishna Varanasi, from San Ramon, Bay Area, California, USA.

Arpita and Joe from Atlanta family joined annadana service

These are the sign boards at the Nitya Anna daanam place. I am not good at all translating any of these, I will give a try.

Eat peacefully with divine consciousness

Food is the prabrahma swaroopa, do not waste any.

Do not waste food

Notice maha bilvam plant, very rare plants on the earth

How lucky are those hundreds of hungry ones stopping and eating Prasad.

Truck drivers are stopping on side of the highway road, about a kilometer long

About three hundred people had Anna daana prasadam. Some of them even do not even know how blessed they are to have darshan of Amma and have prasadam in the presence of Amma…

January 27, 2018 divine morning!

Never had that kind of pleasant mornings in my life

Getting ready for lunch prasadam service…

Churning buttermilk to extract butter, applying analogy to our lives, Amma helping us reaching our goal, only purpose of human life ?

How lucky these parijaata flowers are…

Amma taught me personalized lesson of life and how to walk through the sadhana challenges, and blessed with Sri chakram

I do not have any words how to express the feelings and gratitude..blessed all on this planet and universe are.

Amma’s special blessings of the sacred Srichakram. The number Ninety-one of 108 from viswa karma. You may recall that number Ninety is the one that Krishna Reddy uncle received to be placed under the foundation during the groundbreaking ceremony.??

About 280 people had Anna daana prasadam..it is very pretty common to have about 300 people to line up for prasadam on any non festive day.

Imagine the kind of preparation and opportunity for all participating in the service, how lucky…

Daily meal is of 7-course full meal along with closing pan/supari specially made with beetle leaves and dry fruits!

Once anyone have it, no one would ever decline to have another meal there..

Evening divine discourse and satsang, followed by prasadam of lemon rice. I wondered how lemon rice Prasad can be this this good and tasty! With Amma’s presence and grace, anything can transform into anything, to any far better, just like how our lives are transforming from where we started, even many births ago in this journey.

In the evening, Raja rajeswari bhajan group, BK palem, Kakumanu mandalam, Guntur district offering beautiful bhajans and songs for Amma. Amma was singing in between but She stopped me many times and snatched my phone from recording, sorry for unable to share those moments.

Few devotees were leaving the ashram that night, leaving with heavy hearts, Amma blessed them with sarees. I am poor at names but I think Aparna and family from Hyderabad.

Jan 28, 2018 beautiful divine morning.

All were super excited and getting ready for another Anna daana service

It was my turn to go back to busy world, but attempt to be more detached from this earthly maya. Whatever comes must go..with super heavy heart and rolling tears had to leave the ashram with many sweet memories of Amma ???

December 2017 Events

????????????
December, 2017
Sri Sri Sri
Vasudevananda Swamy Ashram
Naidupeta, Nellore Dt.,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
????????????

December 1, 2017 – Amma returned to the Ashram after morning breakfast in Tirupati

A word about Amma’s travels – Some of the devotees may be aware of Amma’s unannounced mystery visits to the Himalayas; typically these last nearly ten days, and with no entourage accompanying no one has any details of these visits. And to our knowledge these are not visits to the devotees rather they are solo spiritual journeys to sacred places.
Many of us have come to Amma from the occasional visits Amma makes to foreign countries. The earliest visits dating back to over fifteen years ago are to Singapore, and the devotees there have very many fond memories of those early days. Amma also has been visiting Malaysia, Bali and Thailand on occasion. Amma’s blessings to the USA devotees date back to the maiden visit to the Bay Area, California in 2011. Ever since there has been a groundswell of devotees thronging to see Amma with each of the visits posing much challenge to meet in devotees’ residences.
Amma does make occasional day-visits to devotees homes, especially the aged or the ailing. The recent visits may be foretelling the future as Amma started visiting places as more and more devotees are coming to know about Amma, and Amma is naturally drawn to them responding to their earnest prayers.???

Jaynee of Singapore, the bubbly, energetic and creative devotee of Amma was already at the Ashram awaiting Amma. As usual she came with loads of goodies, toys, candies and nicknacks to celebrate early Christmas at the Ashram and bring much joy to everyone in the true spirit of Christmas. This is no small feat — I know the details of all the creative hard-work she has put in over a month in gathering and preparing the items for the celebration. I was there to witness the event last year but was unable to make it this year.
In her own words…. the excitement and enthusiasm for the event:
… “I did not know earlier that this auspicious date 02nd Dec is also the sacred day of Karthikai Deepam!
I sincerely hope that you and Prasuna can be in the ashram to join all of us in the ashram on the 02nd Night. I would like to name the night theme “CHRISTMAS DEEPAM”?
I will try my best together with the village ladies n gents to setup the Decos. Ho..ho..ho..”
I am truly grateful that Jenny promptly shared the pictures of the event and even made a beautifully laid out album.?

The village children majority of whom are non-english speaking were so thrilled to show that they can sing english song! …… ” like a diamond in the sky ” . (Jaynee’s note)???

And the bhajans went on as well…

Smt Devi & Sri Nathan of Malaysia joined the fun.?

December 3, 2017 – with the initiative of Sri Sampath Padakanti who has taken permanent residence at tge Ashram an elaborate worship and bhajan program was held in the Ashram temple by the Ayyappa Swamy devotees who are known for their austere Sadhana. In preparation for the function Sri Sampat Padakanti had the Temple and surroundings beautifully decorated and special altars were built in the Temple Mandapam (hall).?

Namo Namah! Sri Guru Paadukaabhyam!??

December 3-5, 2017 – On the morning of December 3rd Amma started on a five hour journey by road to Guntur to visit Smt & Sri Babu Rao Pyda, aging parents of Sri Srinivas Pyda of Livermore, California, USA. Amma’s visit to the elder Pydas is a welcome relief for the family as they gather to support the patriarch of the family in coping up with his failing health. Whenever Amma visits the Pydas it is a festive and joyous occasion, and a blessing to the family and friends and local devotees who are always eager to have Amma’s Darshan. Over the two days of stay there was a continuous stream of devotees from sunup to sundown seeking Amma’s guidance and blessings.?

Welcoming at the Pydas.???

Visiting devotees.?

????????????
December 8-14, 2017
Amma’s Visit to
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
?
Sri Vasudevananda Swamy Trust
Naidupeta, Nellore Dt.,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
????????????

Please see the separate post for the Malaysia Trip 2017 details

December 10, 2017 – Back at the Ashram in Naidupeta charitable service activities continue despite Amma’s physical absence. Besides the free food that the Ashram serves to all the visitors, poor and hungry and the wayfarers periodically the Ashram ventures into the community to extend the free food service for special occasions. Today was one such occasion. At a nearby school young children gathered to compete on their skills of Bhagavadgita recitation from memory. The Ashram helped the program by providing free breakfast and lunch to nearly 200 children. Here are a few pictures of that memorable service event.???

December, 19, 2017 – Amma made a day visit to Chendodu (near Vidya Nagar), Nellore, Dt., A.P. (About 0.5 hour from the Ashram), at our invitation (Prasuna and I). Few years ago we built Sri Nagarpamma Temple in the small town (which is now part of the Vasudevananda Organization ), and, also. Prasuna has a few acres of her ancestral land under Rice cultivation, and that was the reason for the blessed visit.
After a brief visit to the temple we went to the rice fields where the workers were planting the paddy seedling. Amma joined them in the chore to their utter joy, and they broke into a song singing Amma’s glories. And, then a little later Amma took over carrying the load of paddy seedling bundles lightening the load of the young man.???

December 21, 2017 – Being adjacent to the highway brings many distinguished visitors that make an unplanned stop at the Ashram; and many wayfarers from all walks of life.
Among the frequent visitors are the the Revered Jain Gurus, and we have hosted both the Digambaras and the Swethambaras. Today’s honorable guests are “Shramana Shri 108 Vishvesh Sagar Maharaj” and entourage of “Shree 108 Virag Sagar Muni Raksha Trust”. Because of their strict dietary requirements they prepare their own food, and spend the day singing bhajans and have satsang with their Guruji. Their gathering has that distinct modesty, discipline and serenity.?

December 22, 2017 – Lately many overseas devotees have been making it a point to come and visit the Ashram even when they come to India on a short visit. Today, Sri Subrahmanyam Ongole arrived and spent the day at the Ashram seeking Amma’s blessings and guidance.???

December 24, 2017 – On this sacred day of Christmas Eve one of the cows in the Goshaala went into labor. Being the first pregnancy the cow went through prolonged labor and much difficulty in the delivery. But, for the lucky soul Amma was there not at a veterinarian or nurse but rather as a loving mother guiding and comforting her with soothing words and repetition of “Om”. There were a few visitors to observe the miracle of birth, including the contingent from California – Smt Gita Goyal, Shobha Sharma, and the young and curious Anuj. Amma also revealed that witnessing birthing of the cow and circumambulating thrice bestows much spiritual merit.?

Apologies for the poor quality of the video.

December 26, 2017 – You may recall from the earlier postings that Jaynee of Singapore brought Christmas early to the Ashram. On December 2, 3017 Jaynee orchestrated a grand Christmas celebration with all the decorations, music, costumes and lighting. And especially she brought wagon-fulls of gifts of candy, chocolates and nicknacks bringing excitement and joy to one and all.
While the December celebration on the 25th was modest by comparison, Amma carried the real spirit of Christmas of giving on the 26th to the neighboring village, Srinivasapuram. With the young Anuj all dressed up as the jolly Santa, a few of us including Gita and Shobha of California went on the excursion carrying candy, chocolates and some school supplies as gifts to the children of the village. As we walked through the small village giving the gifts to the village children, Amma kept a keen eye to make sure that we didn’t miss anyone. With the Doctor with us (Dr Shobha Sharma) Amma kept announcing asking the villagers to avail the opportunity for a free exam and free medicine; some of the did stop by later at the Ashram for free medical advice and medicine.?

Ho! Ho! Ho! Off we go to Srinivasapuram.?

Amma greeted the travelers in the train that passed by. Along the way to Srinivasapuram, Amma stopped passers by and have Anuj give them the holiday candy.

December 26, 2017 – Evening worship at the Ashram Temple.??????

December 27, 2017 – Beautiful serene morning glory at the Ashram.???

I caught the visiting families (Patels & Kaks) from the Bay Area, California headed to the morning worship at the Temple.?

Smt Mani and her husband Sri Anusheel Kak of Pleasanton, California along with their two lovely children made their prayerful offerings to Amma including garlanding Amma with garlands specially made with cardamom, cloves and dates.?
Another California Family, Smt Jyothidhar and Sri Ashwin Patel along with their daughter Priyanka were there as well for the morning Darshan of Amma.?

Whenever Anuj is around you can visibly see the joy in Amma’s face. The pride and joy, and the youngest of the three children of Smt Gita and Sri Ashwin Goyal of California is carefree, curious, funny, bright and very talented; and this morning he sang a very beautiful devotional song to Amma as his aunt Dr. Shobha Sharma watched on. Amma was full of compliments and gave him a big hug of love.??

The artistic sisters Smt Gita Goyal and Dr. Shobha Sharma painted a beautiful inviting floral motif decorating the entry of Amma’s new residential quarters.??????

December 29-31, 2017: What a better way to end the year than with Go-Daanam (Charitable gifting of a Holy Cow). This one act is considered as the most sacred and most meritorious charitable deed. Three families participated in this sacred ceremony by donating a cow and calf; coincidentally all of them happened to hail from California, USA. The blessed families include, Smt Mani & Sri Anusheel and family, Smt Jyothidhar & Sri Ashwin Patel and family, and Smt Pallavi & Dr. Raghunath Reddy and family.???
Most devotees are familiar with the Anna-Daanam (serving free food), and Vastra-Daanam (giving away free clothes) which is done by the Ashram throughout the year, but especially on a grand scale during the 10-day celebration of the Navarathri festival. It is the generous contributions of the inspired devotees from around the world that enable the Ashram to take up such magnanimous charitable activities and serve the poor and needy of the society.???
Here are a few pictures of that wonderful event of Go-Daanam and the joyful times that the families spent around Amma.?

Smt Pallavi & Dr. Raghunath Reddy along with their beautiful daughters basking in Amma’s love on the footsteps of the Ashram Temple.??

The Reddys of Stockton, California, USA participating in the sacred Go-Daanam.?

“LOVE” Vs “PREMA”
I would like to share the sincere suggestion of a good family friend and a companion in my spiritual journey for nearly thirty years, Sri Ram Ramanujam of Sacramento, California, USA.
Over the years we exchanged mutual perspectives and understanding on a wide range of spiritual topics and concepts. On some issues he is very persuasive and persistent to the point I don’t hesitate to call him ‘opinionated’. Here is one that he has been hammering me for a while – he strongly believes that the word “Love” in the context of devotion (Bhakti) falls short in expressing Divine Love and the correct word to use is “Prema”; he also believes that we can eventually educate and steer everyone to use the word “Prema”.
In support of his view, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba clarified this very concept in one of his discourses as follows:
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There is no one in Bharath who does not know the word Prema. The entire cosmos is steeped in it. Prema is incomparable and indescribable. The sage Narada declared “Anirvachaneeyam Prema” (Love transcends speech).
The difference between Prema and Anuraaga.
At the human level, this love assumes many forms. The word love is used in common parlance in the context of the relations between mother and child, husband and wife, master and servant, the preceptor and the pupil. But this is not true love. It cannot be termed Prema (love). It is only Anuraaga (attachment). Prema can be applied only to the total love towards the Divine. It is utterly selfless. It has not come from the world nor has it fallen from the sky. It is Sahaja swaroopam (sui generis).
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As much as I appreciate his tenacity and fully agree with his view, I am afraid that if we have to strictly adhere to the correct sanskrit form of many of the words, this may be just the tip of the iceberg — there are many such sanskrit words that dot have good English equivalents. But, to make peace, periodically I will parenthetically add the word “Prema”???

As Amma’s Divine Mission unfolds many are taking part in Amma’s ongoing Divine Play, some actively on the stage and some from behind the scenes (call them stage-hands). Here is a snapshot of the cast as my phone captured it. If your picture isn’t there don’t worry, you may be one of those who likes to be anonymous. Also, remember that Amma who Produces and Directs the play knows all her cast and crew and credits them duly in time.???

Malaysia Trip 2017

????????????
December 8-14, 2017
Amma’s Visit to
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
?
Sri Vasudevananda Swamy Trust
Naidupeta, Nellore Dt.,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
????????????

Amma’s Malaysia visits have become very much an annual event. I can only summarize the whole experience of these visits as a PURE DEVOTIONAL LOVE FEST. It is said that God too longs for sincere seekers; and the ebb and flow of that love between the devotee and the Divine is very tangible in the air in these satsangs.
Amma was hosted with all the honors and love by the family of Sri. Sree Harry for the first four days (December 8-12, 2017), and the last two days (December 12-14, 2017) by the family of Sri. Chandran Ramamurthy. ?

It was amazing to witness the sincerity, dedication, enthusiasm and love with which every member of Sree Harry’s family were engaged in every aspect of the elaborate programs of worship, vedic chanting and satsangs they have orchestrated for each day. The programs started from the very early morning hours beginning at 4 AM
and concluded around 10 PM. There was a month-long preparation for the event by the family, and it is very laudable as to how the family opened their hearts and home to the youth who made the programs rich with their creativity, dedication and love with their soul elevating singing of bhajans and songs. The youth too found these days filled with fun and joy, and spiritually enriching. As the youth spent chatting away into the wee hours it almost felt like a slumber party except that they were brimming with true spiritual joy. With so much work at hand everyone pitched in all the chores including shopping for provisions, preparation of food, and cleaning.
Amma too got into the act in by making pickles and desserts. Amma also engaged the youth in these tasks and Amma’s humor and teasing brought out sidesplitting pealing laughter echoing the house.
The sweet hospitality of Sree Harry’s family is truly commendable especially considering the rich and elaborate programs that filled each day. The gracious lady of the house Smt. Ambiga and the three devoted and disciplined loving daughters, Thanisha, Dhevina and Varenya whose humility and friendliness made everyone feel welcome. On several occasions during the visit Amma has complimented the family for their spiritual focus, harmony, love, humility and dedication as the very hallmarks of a good Hindu family. Amma implored the youth to model their own lives following the example of this family who are on a firm footing on the spiritual path while engaged in serving the society, despite their worldly success and prosperity.?

Amma receives a warm loving welcome by the Malaysian devotees as we arrived in Kuala Lumpur on the afternoon of December 8th. Although the flight itself was only 4.5 hours long, with the time difference and travel time to Chennai airport we had to leave the Ashram around 3 AM, making it a long journey. Yet Amma remained very alert and energetic.?

The RED CARPET WELCOME at Sree Harry’s home.???

The Blessed Family ?????

….and “The Gang”!!!?

The family lead Amma to the beautifully decorated bedroom for a little rest before getting started with the evening program.?

The family decorated every wall and room tastefully with spiritually elevating themes and pictures. Also adorning the wall is a beautiful collage of pictures Amma immortalizing the previous visits of Amma to the family.?

Well conceptualized was another elegant seating arrangement for the late night satsangs. Typically devotees gathered around Amma to partake dinner and wait for Amma’s nectarine words of advice both for dharmic living and spiritual advancement.?

Another member of the Sree Harry family who is always eager for Amma’s Darshan; Amma lovingly calls him “Pandit” (a Scholar)?

Wall decoration in the first floor.?

Most elegant and elaborate Puja Room at Sree Harry’s; and its no display of their devotion rather it is the real Center of their family and home and very much in use.?

The family lovingly served dinner to Amma in the small hall upstairs itself outside Amma’s bedroom. Today the bhajan session was held in the same area following the dinner program.?

Bhajan program got started.?

Typically once the melodious bhajan session ends Amma gives a talk to the gathering on a range of spiritual topics illustrating and illuminating the concepts and message with parables and mythological stories. But today already being a long day Amma retired for the day. A few devotees stayed behind to render the traditional “Shayana Seva” by singing melodious lullabies while some did the Paada Seva by massaging Amma’s lotus feet.???

?December 9, 2017?
?Amma’s Visit to KL, Malaysia?
As noted earlier Sree Harry’s family made each day an intense Sadhana for themselves and all those attended. Each day the program started very early as narrated before with primarily participating in the early morning hours and soon many of the dedicated youth joined in. The home reverberated with chants and recitations which was truly spiritually uplifting.???

There is no one who can match Amma’s Alankaaram (decoration) skills; Amma is decorating the small idol of Sri Rajarajeswari Devi.?

Bhajans contd…

The host family recently purchased a pair of beautiful silver Paadukaas, and what a wonderful occasion for them to worship them as Amma wore them accompanied by the recitation of Gurupaduka Stotram.?

Morning program concluded with Arathi.??

DIVINE MISSION – For those of you who are familiar with the childhood pranks of Lord Krishna especially how he inspired and lead the innocent Gopalas to steal butter in neighbors’ homes this might sound all too familiar.
After the morning program Amma decided to make the mango pickle and feed the devotees with pickle rice. Malaysia is blessed with a year round Mango crop, and many homes have the trees fully laden with the fruit. When Amma talked about making the pickle the youth quickly figured out what the task is; since the raw mangoes are not readily available to purchase, they went on a stealth mission (literally) to harvest the fruit hanging over the compound walls of the neighborhood homes. Here is a video of their exploits.?

Besides the Mango pickle Amma also decided to keep the youth busy in making the Tomato pickle as well. Like the Music Conductor and a seasoned Chef Amma was there to give guidance to the eager volunteers on every step of the preparation and the proportion of the ingredients. This was by no means a serious chore rather a fun-filled exercise with laughter every step of the way. The biggest challenge was to find red pepper hot enough for the pickle. Amma kept dumping packet after packet of red pepper but to no avail; Amma had to settle for less than the ideal level of hot for a pickle. Nevertheless the final product(s), rice mixed with the Mango pickle, as well as the Tomato pickle were truly divine; after all there is the one magical ingredient in it – Amma’s loving Divine hand.????

Now it’s the time to enjoy the fruits of the labor, especially from the Divine hands; while a few screamed in horror from the pepper hot, everyone enjoyed the delicacies.?????

Amma kept on making batches and batches of pickle-rice with the two freshly made pickles until everyone was truly stuffed. ???

Soon after lunch Amma blessed Smt. Devi and Sri RK Nathan Saro the devotee couple who live nearby, by accepting their prayerful request to visit their home. You may recall that only less than two weeks ago they made a special visit to India to express their profound gratitude for saving them from a serious personal issue.??

The Blessed Family ??

Their joy was indescribable as they savored every second of Amma’s Divine presence expressing their love and gratefulness for Amma’s shower of grace on their entire family.??

It is hard to say goodbye! So long dearest Amma!???

Amma was welcomed back to the home of Sree Harrys.???

Soon it was time for the evening satsang and the worship and bhajan session got underway.???

What followed next was a beautiful dance presentation by Thanisha and a melodious sitar recital by Dhevina, two of the three adorable daughters of Smt Ambiga and Sri Sree Harry.?

Earrings, anklets — Amma is game for blessing the devotees by wearing and sanctifying them.?

Amma was now truly in a mood for the Divine dance with his Beloved devotees; brings back the memories of yore when the gopikas had that loving privilege to dance in Divine ecstasy.???

Soon it was time join Amma for dinner and it is yet another festive occasion enjoying the delicious food interspersed with Amma’s humor as Amma poked fun at the youth and everyone joined with loud laughter.?
Typically the satsang followed the dinner event when Amma spoke on a variety of spiritual topics. I have to confess two things; one that I was unable to keep pace or keep in memory every word and nuance of Amma’s talk, and failed miserably as a translator; and, second that I did not keep notes or record Amma’s memorable profound spiritual messages. ?

?December 10, 2017?
?Amma’s Visit to KL, Malaysia?

???Divine Morning Darshan???. Mohana Roopa Gopala??? Oohaa-theethamu Nee Leela??? (O! Gopala of enchanting form; your Divine Play is beyond human comprehension.???)

Early in the morning Amma engaged Sri TN Shankar, Sri Prakash Mukka and Prasuna in preparing the the Banana flower to prepare the curry, considered a special delicacy.?

Morning worship program got underway. A couple of notable priests from KL officiated this morning’s special worship of Divine Mother as Balatripurasundari Devi. The family has especially commissioned the beautiful image of Balatripurasundari Devi made with Sandalwood paste for the occasion.??

As the worship continued Amma stepped away for a short while into the kitchen to make coffee for all the youth who have been toiling long hours in support of all the programming from sunup to sundown; Prasuna was there to assist Amma.?

Nescafé anyone?

After finishing making the coffee and personally filling the cups with coffee Amma SERVED them too! Where can you find a GOD like that? For me HE is a keeper!?

For Amma is no ordinary mother; she is the Universal Mother who cannot contain that natural flow of love.?
While in the kitchen Amma gave the final touches to that special delicacy, the Banana flower curry for which the preparation started early in the morning.?

The special worship program of Sri Balatripurasundari Devi concludes.??

One of the devotees brought a couple of garlands made by stringing together chocolate candies and garlanded Amma. Amma was quick to distribute them garlanding the young devotees with them.???

How sweet it is ?

Having tasted the delicious pickle-rice the day before, the young adults didn’t need much coaxing to go on another hunt for green mangoes in the neighborhood. Here are the video clips of their urban adventures.?

The race is on; Amma is at it orchestrating the making of Mango pickle once again.??

Lunch and a little rest followed; and soon it was time for the evening worship program that began around 4:30 PM. A little later Amma arrived and the bhajan session ensued.???

As Amma was ready to retire for the day Amma was drawn to a little girl and kept her entertained by playing games with her. For the One for whom the whole Universe is a stage of His play this truly is a child’s play.???

Truly blessed granddaughter of Smt Devi and Sri RK Nathan.???

? December 11, 2017?
? Amma’s Visit to KL, Malaysia ?

A quiet moment early in the morning Amma reached out to the guitar on the way to downstairs for the morning worship in progress and started playing it deeply immersed in thought.???

Sama Gaana Priye, Sakala Lokeswari ???

The elegantly decorated idol of the Divine Mother Sri Rajarajeswari Devi.?

Amma noticed that the idol of Lord Siva on the altar in the form of Ardhanareeshwar was not fully decorated. In a truce Amma started tha Alankaaram of the idol and you cannot but applaud the speed and beauty of the idol as Amma wrapped the half female form fashioned as a saree and the male aspect of the idol in Dhoti.?

In the foreground stands the beautiful Ardhanareeshwara Siva that Amma decorated so elegantly.???

The beautiful altar with Sri Balatripurasundari Devi seated in the center.???

The young adults sing the Gurupaduka Stotram composed by Sri Adi Shankaracharya.?

The host family along with the participation of the young adults made the day all the more relevant and made Amma very happy by orchestrating giving school supplies, school uniforms and chocolates for children from the neighboring orphanage. What a wonderful way to embrace Amma’s mission of service and show one’s love to Amma. Oh! How lucky are the children to receive the precious gifts directly from the Divine Hands of Amma.???

Adults get some candy too!

The Blessed Host Family.???

Just an overview for those that are overwhelmed with all the postings.??

After the conclusion of the morning worship program, Sri Sree Harry requested Amma to visit and bless his office where he operates his law firm; Amma readily consented.?

Occupying Sri Sree Harry’s Desk??

Amma returned back to the host family’s residence ???

Once back, Amma headed straight to the kitchen to make one of that heavenly deserts.???

Today’s evening program was exceptional with the usual worship program was followed up and concluded with melodious violin recital.???
Here is a little background on the talented trio who gave a superb memorable performance.
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Sriram is an engineer by profession and plays the violin as a hobby. Since his maiden performance (arangetram) at the age of 14, Sriram, who dedicates his music to God, his Gurus and parents, has accompanied numerous artistes in dance and vocal performances both locally and abroad.
Darmenthiran Krisnasamy started learning the mrudangam at the tender age of four, under the tutelage of his father and uncle, who were well-known musicians in the Indian musical circle. This direct disciple of Guru Sri Karaikudi has performed in many concerts, although still in his 20s.
Selvendrrah Krishnan started to play the tabla for Sai bhajans at the age of 11. In 2009, he joined the Temple of Fine Arts to pursue his tabla interest formally following the Indian Guru-Shisya tradition. He completed his tabla arangetram on the 21st of May 2017 and conferred the title ‘Layaanjali’. Selvendrrah performs extensively locally and in overseas
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The evening ended with the melodious bhajans.?

Over these four days Amma blessed a devotee by creating a beautiful silver Srichakram pendant, and created the sacred fragrant Vibhuti for some of the devotees. In addition there were couple of spectacular creations of large amounts of Gandham (Sandalwood powder), and fortunately parts of this miraculous incidents were caught on video (~ Dec 10-11, 2017). My own personal observation and assessment on especially the creation of copious amounts of Vibhuti and Gandham which seem to come as endless stream to fill everyone’s palms is that it is the overwhelming love of the devotees in the air at that moment which provokes and evokes such response from the Divine. For the lack of a better analogy I would like to suggest that it is similar to a baby calf suckling the mother cow that brings the milk in torrents from it’s udder, as the mother feels it’s intense bond of love.???

? December 12, 2017?
? Amma’s Visit to KL, Malaysia ?

It is the last day of the rich spiritually energizing program at the home of our gracious hosts Smt Ambiga and Sri Sree Harry; their three beautiful daughters Thanisha, Dhevina and Varenya who were fully engaged in every aspect of the program.
The stay at their home also ended on a high note as Dhevina celebrated her birthday in the Divine Presence of Amma. What better way to celebrate when Amma herself rushed into the kitchen to make two special desserts for the occasion! Amma made and served breakfast for everyone as well.
Please don’t let any of this Divine Play of Amma mingling and behaving like one of us fool you into thinking that He is an ordinary man with extraordinary powers. That is His play to put us to slumber with His Maya; but, we should be on guard, and always behave with true love (Prema) and devotion (Bhakti) remembering who Amma really is – DIVINE WALKING AMONGST US AS HUMAN.?

Happy Birthday Dhevina.?????

The chaos in the kitchen ?

Dhevina receives Birthday blessings.??

In the evening Amma was scheduled to leave to Smt Kalpana & Sri Chandran Ramamoorthy’s home within 45 min drive.
The afternoon program started with a formal cake cutting ceremony to celebrate Dhevina’s birthday. Some melodious songs followed to express the deep gratitude and love for Amma before the curtain fell after taking group pictures for the memories of a lifetime.????

The host family honored all the young adults with a shawl for their dedication, devotion and long hours of hard-work over the five day program making it rich with their melodious singing, love and laughter.?????????

December 12, 2017- the last day at Sree Harrys; Amma goes into prayer room to say her farewell to her ‘family”. Kisses little Bala tripurasundari. Bala tripurasundari was created using sandal paste specially for the prayers on December 10, 2017.??

It was truly the blessed day for Dhevina for the Lord Himself made the dessert in celebration of her Birthday and showered much special grace on her.??

Below, Amma strums Dhevina’s sitar before asking Dhevina to play a piece.???

With heavy hearts the Sree Harry family bid goodbye to their Beloved Amma, as Amma and the entourage left to the home of Smt Kalpana and Sri Chandran Ramamoorthy.?
All through the five-day stay it was abundantly clear to everyone of their Prema (love) and single pointed devotion (Bhakti) to Amma. Their Prema for Amma was truly contagious, and with Amma’s humor and Amma’s culinary delicacies our stomachs were bursting with laughter and the holy food Amma made. We are truly grateful to the host family for opening their home and hearts in bringing joy to so many devotees.??

December 12, 2017 – In the evening we have arrived with Amma at the home of Smt Kalpana and Sri Chandran Ramamoorthy which is less than an hours drive away. The gracious couple along with their two cute young daughters and Chandran’s parents extended a warm loving welcom to Amma. Sree Harry’s family and some of the young adults joined as well.????

The beautiful altar setup.???

Soon the evening Devotion Program gets underway starting with the chanting of the Rudram.?

As is customary with Amma on any visit to a devotee’s home, Amma visited the Ramamoorthys’ elegant shrine-room.?

The host family lovingly served dinner to Amma.??

Two Birthday Celebrations in a day!!!; it was Dhevina’s at Sree Harrys, and it is the celebration of Sai Janani’s, the cute and loving eldest daughter of the Ramamoorthys.??

? December 13, 2017?
? Amma’s Visit to KL, Malaysia ?

At the Ramamoorthys the morning started with a very special homa ceremony which lasted nearly half-a-day filling the whole house with the holy smoke and reverberating with the sacred chants.???

Amma examines a sacred Yantram from the Ramamoorthys’ shrine room.

As blessed by Amma, in the above picture, if you closely observe the homa fire it resembles the side profile of Lord Ganesha with a blessing hand.

No visit is complete without a cooking session in the kitchen; this time it is the Tomato chutney.?

Blessings from above.?? — the evening special was that Amma showered streams of Gandham (Sandalwood powder) from the balcony above as devotees below jostled to get their share of the heavenly scented sacred stuff.?

A loving moment between the Sree Harry that Amma blessed from the balcony.??

Amma preempted the bhajan session this evening, and instead encouraged everyone present to have lively exchange on spiritual topics and Amma moderated the discussion. It was truly a rewarding experience.?

The evening concluded with the devotees coming one by one offering a stem of rose to Amma as an expression of their boundless Prema for Amma.??

? December 14, 2017?
? Amma’s Visit to KL, Malaysia ?

The final day of the memorable visit to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The morning worship program continued as scheduled.

I followed Amma to the adjoining vacant lot where Amma went to pluck the leaves of Gongura plant; I am clueless as to how Amma knew about it’s existence. We all enjoyed the Gongura chutney Amma made with our lunch.?

One last stop at the beautiful shrine of the host family.??

Ramanan holds the precious sacred Vibhuti; Amma’s blessings can be seen right on his face.??

We are approaching the time to head to the airport, but just like the children in the USA who always plead with Amma for one last chance to play games with Amma, the young adults made their plea, and Amma readily agreed to play the “Hop Skip and Jump”. When it comes to game Amma is very competitive; it was a wonderful way to conclude the auspicious visit that brought joy to everyone.???

At the airport with the loving KL gang.???

November 2017 Events

????????????
November, 2017
Sri Sri Sri
Vasudevananda Swamy Ashram
Naidupeta, Nellore Dt.,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
????????????

November 5, 2017 – Blessed couple from Hyderabad and relatives of Sri Viswadeep Veguru of California are thrilled for the good fortune of receiving the sacred Srichakram from Amma. The count goes to 89.?

November 7, 2017 – A group of devotees from the nearby Sulurpet township made it an annual event to come during the sacred Kartika month to do a very artistic floral decoration on the Temple floor.?

Spectacular rainbow arcs over the sky behind Smt Nageswaramma Building

Amma too gets into the act by lighting the Diyyas.??

November 13th 2017 –

Welcome to one of the most memorable and historic month and year in the annals of the Ashram.???
The biggest news and in a way a very sentimental edifice on the holy grounds of the Ashram and a very modest structure, Amma’s residence will remain a distant memory. The structure was demolished in the auspicious early morning hours of November 13th to make space for a spacious five-floor Building – The MANIDWEEPA MAHANILAYAM. The building was conceived and designed with a view to further the organizational aspirations and expand the charitable service activities. It will also include the new residential quarters for our Beloved Amma. The building was designed by a renowned architectural firm meeting the latest design and safety standards, and is fully compliant with Vastu. The construction will begin shortly; attached is a conceptual presentation of the Manidweepa Mahanilayam.???

Manidweepa Mahanilayam???

All of us who visited the Ashram over the years have many fond memories of visiting Amma in the old residence. If the walls of the building can only talk I am sure we would have heard from its memory of nearly fifteen years of existence many wonderful stories of Amma’s Divine play, spiritual messages and astounding miracles. I am sure that many of you have your personal experiences and lifetime memories as well.
It was only last December that Smt Uma & Sri Ratan Naidu of Stockton, CA, USA made a special visit to paint Amma’s Living quarters upstairs; and two couples from California (Smt Gita & Sri Ashwin Goyal, and Smt Chandana & Sri Srinivas Talluri) beautified the entrance with the paintings of Temple elephant motif.
All that is gone now!
Here are a few pictures and lasting memories of Amma’s residence.?

Out with the old and in with the new!
Amma’s residence was moved to the top floor of the Sudarshanamma building. The whole process of demolition lasted two days. In all this Amma stood a witness, unaffected. But for most devotees who have been long associated with Ashram and the Ashramites it was a sad day and while many lamented at the loss a few did shed tears.
Amma watched over the whole process from his new residential quarters frequently cautioning the workers regarding the safety. When the final moment of taking down the heavy roof Amma was cheering them; and it is not that Amma was elated about the coming of the new building replacing it. I have witnessed the same response from Amma when any natural calamity strikes, or when a aged person seem to still hang on to the old cloth (body). In such situations, Amma would say — “New shirt is awaiting you (meaning next life), how long will you hang on to the worn out shirt (meaning old and diseased body). For, from Amma’s perspective the show must go on — Srushti, Sthithi, Laya (Creation, Maintenace or Sustainment and Dissolution). That is the Divine Play! Amma is keen to start the new play!??

Amma’s watchful eyes.???

Looking back — the way it was, the place where Amma received the devotees.?

The distinction of having the last formal Darshan of Amma in the old residence on November 12th (before the demolition) goes to the family of Dr. Srinivasulu garu and family. He is the Principal of a nearby Govt. College. When he was heading the Naidupeta College he facilitated in the month-long free midday meals provided by the Ashram.?

Here are a few pictures of the final day lighting (November 17th) of the month-long lighting festival (Kartika Maasam).?

Lighting at the Holy Shami tree on the banks of the pond in front of the Temple.?

November 17, 2017 – And now the distinction for doing the first worship to Amma in the new residential quarters goes to the Gaddam family of Livermore, California, USA. The couple who came with their two daughters were celebrating their wedding anniversary in Amma’s Divine Presence.???

Thursday, November 23, 2017 – THE NEW BEGINNING ???
On this holy day in the very auspicious hours the Bhuma Puja (Ground Worship) for the Manidweepa Mahanilayam started around 9:30 PM. Sri Seshagiri Rao garu officiated the ceremony with the assistance of Dhiraj (young new Priest of the Ashram Temple). It was the good fortune of Prasuna and me along with Smt Shobha & Sri Ram Ramanujam (Sacramento, CA, USA) for being blessed with the role as the primary participants in the historic Ceremony. The Ceremony concluded around midnight; the concluding homa ceremony took place in the early morning hours of November 24th starting at 3:30 AM. A couple of cows and calves, as well as Bulls were brought in from the Goshaala as part of the ceremony. Amma sat nearby to preside over and bless the ceremony.???

While the Bhuma Puja was going on one side excavation for the Shanku Sthapana (Ground Breaking/ Ceremonial laying of foundation) scheduled for 6:30 AM on November 24th. Considering the size of the building the foundation has to start from ten feet below the ground, and in order to have sufficient space for the ceremonial activity a pit of 9’x9’ and 13’ deep.?

November 24, 2017 – After participating in the homa ceremony which started at 3:30 AM, I went up to Amma seated near the kitchen seeking blessings to participate in the Shanku Sthapana ceremony scheduled to begin at 5:30 AM. Blessings sure Amma did shower by creating the sacred Srichakram to be placed under the pillar foundation of the building (Manidweepa Mahanilayam); and it is auspicious number 90 in the series that Amma has created — no “coincidence” here; I call it “Divine-incidence”. As Smt Shobha Ram joined us to the bottom of the pit while Sri Ram Ramanujam helped with taking the pictures we were truly overwhelmed for this unique blessings to be part of Amma’s grand mission. Sri Seshagiri Rao garu patiently conducted the elaborate ritual with strict adherence to the scriptures and utmost sincerity. The “Shanku”, a wooden carved structure measuring one foot high and six inches in diameter symbolically representing the Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwara), along with small offerings of precious metals and gems (Navaratnas) were also laid under the pillar foundation. ???

Amma watched the ceremony standing above at the edge of the pit along with other devotees and Ashramites. Devotees from the nearby villages came by and sang melodious bhajans.?????

November 25, 2017 – Amma always implores to follow the tradition when it comes to paying respects to the departed ancestors. Today Smt Shobha Ramanujam (of Sacramento, California, USA) accompanied by her husband and children paid respects to her departed mother with ceremonial prayers, offerings and charitable acts (Dasha Daanas).?

Here are a few more pictures of the foundation laying (Shanku Sthapana) Ceremony (November 24, 2017).?

Srichakram (number 90) that Amma created on the morning of November 24th along with the tri-level Shanku placed under the pillar foundation.?

November 26, 2017 – As it was a very auspicious day another sacred ceremony was held in continuation of laying foundation to the Manidweepa Mahanilayam. The ceremony started in the early morning hours and once again it was our good fortune to be the primary participants of the ceremony. Prasuna and I carefully descended into the 13 feet pit dug for the foundation, where the ceremony was to be held. The ceremony began with invocation to Lord Ganesha and followed by worship and offerings to Ashta Dikpalakas (Presiding deities and guardians of the eight directions). At 5:30 AM amidst the sacred chants with Sri Seshagiri garu officiating as the Priest we have placed the sacred Matsya Yantra (a sacred copper plate with the sacred mystical letters). The ceremony ended with Mangala Arathi, under Amma’s watchful eye and blessings. Thanks to Smt Jhansi Tumu who was at hand to record this memorable event.???

Under Amma’s watchful eye and blessings ??

Morning Darshan: what stays in the memory of most devotees — Amma seated in the kitchen carrying on informal conversation or lovingly serving breakfast and coffee to her beloved children like a real Mother.???

After the special early morning ceremonial worship we had breakfast and got ready to accompany Amma to Chennai. Answering the prayerful request of one of the ardent devotees, Smt Dr. Shobha Ramanujam & Sri Ram Ramanujam Amma was visiting them in their new condominium in Royapeta, Chennai. The Ramanujams whose primary residence is in Sacramento, California also had their grown up children Sahana and Sankalp vising them. Both of them reside in California as well; Sahana is a practicing Physician and Sankalp a Professional Engineer employed with a major Semiconductor Manufacturing Company; more importantly they both are very much devoted to Amma.
Over a year ago Amma visited and blessed the family on the occasion of the housewarming ceremony (Gruhapravesham) of their new condominium. The Ramanujams have permanently allocated one of their large bedrooms for Amma’s exclusive use with the intention of opening up their home where devotees can have Amma’s Darshan whenever Amma visits Chennai. The four-condominium Building is in Royapet, a central location in Chennai. Their residence has even greater history — the place where today the condominium building stands was originally the home of Dr. Shobha Ramanujam’s parents. Shobha’s parents were ardent devotees of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba and it was their great fortune that Bhagawan Baba has graced the occasion of the Gruhapravesham of then House more than four decades ago; coming full circle, it is the good fortune of this generation of the family to receive the Divine Blessings of Amma in the new edifice.
Because of the brief one-day visit Amma’s visit was kept quiet, yet the word was out and few lucky souls came to receive Amma’s blessings.???

As usual Amma is in the kitchen, but…

…this time around it is not cooking but cleaning the worship articles.?

Everyone gathered in the living room, a bit relaxed and enjoying the famous Madras coffee as Amma was getting ready for the evening satsang; Smt Alka Patel of Boston who was visiting the Ashram joined as well.?

Amma found the window seat in the kitchen very welcoming.?

Amma well settled in the room that the Ramanujams have reserved for permanent exclusive use by Amma. The small idol of Sri Rajarajeswari Devi, a constant companion of Amma was covered with a mountain of flowers literally fully covering the deity.?

Amma made a special visit to Tirupati on the morning of November 29, 2017 responding to the earnest prayers of Smt & Sri Srinivasacharyulu Rompicherla. Dr. Srinivasacharyulu garu is a renowned Vedic Scholar who served many years as the Chief Priest of the Shiva-Vishnu Temple of Livermore, California, USA. He and his wife were visiting their vacation home in Tirupati. As luck would have it Tirupati is also my temporary residence when I visit India. So, Amma chose to stay at our Apartment to receive and visit devotees over tge next two days. Amma returned back to the Ashram on December 1, 2017.
The Rompicharla couple welcomed Amma with traditional Purnakumbam accompanied with the Vedic chanting. After rendering Paada Puja to Amma and little refreshments took Amma to a plot of land they own to receive Amma’s blessings. Amma also met other devotees who came to the Rompicharla’s home. After lunch that the Rompicharla family especially prepared and served lovingly, and a brief satsang we returned back to our home with Amma.?

Back at our apartment, later that afternoon a special couple, Smt Devi and Sri Nathan (a retired renowned judge from Malaysia) made the exclusive visit to see Amma and express their gratitude. They arrived straight from the Chennai airport enduring nearly a four hour drive. Their joy knew no bounds as they profusely thanked Amma for saving them some serious personal life challenges. Slowly, as the word got out that Amma is in the neighborhood other devotees streamed in and by the evening we had a wonderful satsang with Amma.

Next morning the Malaysian couple were back again for Amma’s Darshan, but this time around to especially receive Amma’s blessings as Smt. Devi celebrates her birthday in the Divine Presence.???

November 30, 2017 contd…
Later in the afternoon Smt Sarojamma and Sri Dashamama Reddy (Ex MLA) welcomed Amma to their home to do Paada Puja, serve specially prepared lunch for Amma, and share their joy and love of Amma with friends and family that reside in Tirupati.???

November 30, 2017 contd…
Realizing that Amma is away from the Ashram Sri Ram Gubbala of Boston, Massachusetts, USA, and Sri MN Reddy of Dublin, California, USA made their journey straight to Tirupati and receive Amma’s blessings.?

Satsang followed by dinner prasad – evening of November 30, 2017

December 1, 2017 — the last day of Amma’s wonderful stay in Tirupati; Amma returned the next morning on December 2, 2017.
Another distinguished visitor from the USA, Dr. Srinivas Pada, President of the Vasudevananda Charitable Organization Inc., USA accompanied by his daughter Dr. Vani Pyda (a practicing Physician from Washington DC ) drive to Tirupati from the Chennai airport to have Amma’s Darshan. Being the last day the evening saw more visitors seeking Amma’s spiritual guidance.?

Temporary altar in Amma’s room at our home in Tirupati.?

Amma loves this fragrant Nagamalli flower (Couroupita guianensis), a unique flower with formation of the flower in the appearance of a Siva Linga with a hooded snake.??

Amma adorned the silver snake that I recently purchased to use over the Siva Linga; well — the very embodiment of Siva adorned it!

That concludes Amma’s whirlwind short tour visiting devotees in Chennai and Tirupati.
A word about Amma’s travels – Some of the devotees may be aware of Amma’s unannounced mystery visits to the Himalayas; typically these last nearly ten days, and with no entourage accompanying no one has any details of these visits. And to our knowledge these are not visits to the devotees rather they are solo spiritual journeys to sacred places.
Many of us have come to Amma from the occasional visits Amma makes to foreign countries. The earliest visits dating back to over fifteen years ago are to Singapore, and the devotees there have very many fond memories of those early days. Amma also has been visiting Malaysia, Bali and Thailand on occasion. Amma’s blessings to the USA devotees date back to the maiden visit to the Bay Area, California in 2011. Ever since there has been a groundswell of devotees thronging to see Amma with each of the visits posing much challenge to meet in devotees’ residences.
Amma does make occasional day-visits to devotees homes, especially the aged or the ailing. The recent visits may be foretelling the future as Amma started visiting places as more and more devotees are coming to know about Amma, and Amma is naturally drawn to them responding to their earnest prayers.???

October 2017 Events

????????????
October, 2017
Sri Sri Sri
Vasudevananda Swamy Ashram
Naidupeta, Nellore Dt.,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
????????????

???????????????????

October seems like the month of renewing the marriage vows in the old-fashioned or rather a very traditional way of celebrating the holy union, called “Shasti Poorthi”.
http://www.priestservices.com/our-services/sashtiabthapoorthi
Smt Andalamma and Sri Sitharamulu Padakanti (Trustee of SVST) celebrated theirs in Hyderabad with Amma’s blessings in the first week of October.
On October 2nd, Smt Lakshmi and Sri Ram Gubbala (Boston, Massachusetts) celebrated their union in Amma’s Holy Presence; the day was filled with all the traditional observations including homa, and a marriage luncheon feast. Here are a few snapshots of the event.?

The day was also marked with the blessed visit of small band of the Aghori sect of holy men who were on their wanderings the modern way — using a motor vehicle.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aghori
Amma welcomed them personally and showered them with gifts to help their travels.?

Other visitors of the day….

Precious moments – – Evening Satsang with Amma??

??ATTENTION‼ATTENTION‼??

It looks like WhatsApp developers heard our fervent prayers and in the latest update added a feature that allows you to delete your OOPS inadvertent postings, but for now only the person posted can delete it and it has to be done within 7 minutes of posting.
?I urge everyone to update their WhatsApp which may be automatic in most cases.
?And, then if it happens that you have mistakenly posted inappropriate or irrelevant information please delete it promptly within the 7 minute timeframe.
Hopefully the future updates will provide this tool for the Group Admins.
Thanks for your cooperation.??

October 3, 2017
With all that food preparation for the daily Annadaana (serving free food) kitchen needs plenty of help. And, Amma is always there to lend a helping hand.???

The evening worship…?

The moonlit nights at the Ashram make it all the more spiritually elevating.?

October 7, 2017
No words necessary — just experience the visual feast.?

October 7, 2017
JAYNEE OF SINGAPORE — Her Passion & Her Mission?
If I say that Jaynee is a unique devotee of Amma with a remarkable amount of energy, creativity and incredible passion with her own brand of childlike love for Amma it still fails to adequately describe her. Her whirlwind visits to the Ashram that bring love and laughter to young and old amidst the chaos she creates only remind me of the the cartoon caricatures somewhere between the Tasmanian Devil and the Roadrunner.?
Jaynee drops in at the Ashram frequently often with a very short notice; her visits are sometimes very short spanning the weekend and not much longer than a week. When she arrives frequently she has her own agenda, program and celebration and somehow she corrals resources and people to pull off fun filled events. She makes elaborate preparations for her visit bringing gifts and snacks for everyone especially the children; no wonder that everyone eagerly awaits her visit. In a way she marches to her own drum beat; her celebrations are illuminating and educational as the cover the spectrum of Chinese festivals to Christmas. She is a one woman on a mission to infect and spread Amma’s love; a rare individual who can come and do her thing at the Ashram even when she clearly knows that Amma is away from the Ashram. Amma too showers on her abundant love calling her, “My daughter”?

The above are pictures from her earlier visit in August.??

What brought Jaynee to the Ashram? I let her explain it in her own passionate words. (Jaynee’s endearing names for me and Prauna — Chief Papa and Chief Mama!)
“Chief Papa, yes i am always thinking of the ashram. I saw this new colorful puzzle cube ABC…. at the small toy shop last evening. Yes i bought. Wondering what kind of fun is to come? I want to display it as Lantern celebration in the ashram next week full moon.”?

“The Harvest Moon Goddess is in the sky all night long!” (- Jaynee)

October 8, 2017
A very special day! Amma made a special visit to the Siva Temple near Pachikapalem (part of Amma’s Trust and Ashram), 30 kilometers from Tirupati, the renowned pilgrimage center. Amma conducted the special worship to inaugurate the construction of the special Panchamukha Hanuman Temple adjoining the Siva Temple. ?

And I received the special Vibhuti blessings.??

October 12-13, 2017
Sights and scenes of the Ashram.???

Ashram dog “Chitti” found herself a toy to bite into.?

That orange spot ….

is none other than a long term resident of the Ashram – – Elizabeth of Bay Area, California, USA. If she is not busy cleaning Amma’s residence or the Temple, she is found helping in the kitchen cutting vegetables or preparing food. Yet she finds time for her spiritual practices; Amma calls her lovingly as “Baby, Mother, or Avvayyar”??

Presiding deities in the Ashram Temple.??

October 19-20, 2017
https://www.religionworld.in/karthika-masam-month-illumination-enlightenment/
The month long Festival of Lights started on 20th. Amma personally visited every location of the Temple premises to see the lighting. As has been the custom at the Ashram diyyas were also lit under the Shami tree in front of the Temple, each night with special design arrangement. With only the diyyas flickering with the gentle breeze it is truly a feast to the eyes to behold.?

In the early morning hours of October 28th Sri Prakash Mukka’s brother emerged from Amma’s room gleaming with joy for his good fortune of receiving that coveted Srichakram, which I heard he has been longing for a long time. Counting 88 of 108!???

Knowing how much I and other devotees love Sithaphal (Custard Apple) Amma picks and keeps a few in the room. This morning Amma even climbed the tree to pluck a few. What a love for the devotees!??

October 26, 2017, Another beautiful rainy morning with melodious veena music emanating from the Temple.

October 27, 2017, A little unfortunate incident as one of the Ashram cows fell into the pit near the Goshaala; the pit was dug a few weeks ago in preparation for the foundation to build another shed for the cows. Despite the efforts of nearly twenty people it was futile until Amma arrived on the scene to guide and bless. The cow came out a bit shaken from the stress, but was unharmed otherwise.??