Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB/EP)

Mangaluru, Feb 20: Amritha Vidalaya near Sultan Battery here flooded with devotees, who came to seek the blessings of world renowned 'hugging saint' Mata Amritanandamayi Devi on the first day of her visit to the city on Tuesday February 20.

'Amrith Sangama' was held earlier in the day, after which Amma, as Mata Amritanandamayi is fondly called, distributed wheelchairs to the differently-abled, scholarships to 25 poor students, pensions to beneficiaries and dustbins in three colours as part of the Amala Bharata campaign promoting cleanliness in schools. She also handed over sports equipment to government higher primary school, Urwa which recently celebrated centenary, sewing machines as part of 'Amrita Mahila Swawalambi' project and other benefits to the deserving.

Union minister for tourism and culture Dr Mahesh Sharma, union minister for skill development and entrepreneurship Ananth Kumar Hegde, state minister for sports and fisheries Pramodh Madhwaraj, MLA J R Lobo, mayor Kavita Sanil and others were present.

“I have come here on the instructions of PM Modi, who is a big fan of Amma. She is famed for her selfless service and with her compassion and care for the poor, she has won hearts. Lakhs of people have benefitted from Amma’s pro-social projects," Mahesh Sharma said

"Mata Amritanandamayi Devi never does service on the basis of caste or religion and always gives importance to humanity. This is the main reason crores of people love her," said Pramod Madhwaraj in his speech.

A book titled 'Karunya Teertha' was released during the event. A special envelope, and Amma stamp were also released. People from different parts of Karnataka, Kerala and also a large number of foreigners attended the event and sought Amma's blessings.