Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, May 28: Spiritual leader Mata Amritanandamayi on Wednesday urged humanity to live with greater humility, compassion and reverence towards nature, warning that pandemics, climate disturbances and natural disasters are urgent reminders for mankind to reassess its relationship with the environment.
Addressing thousands of devotees during the Brahmasthana Mahotsava at the Mata Amritanandamayi Math in Bolur, Mangaluru, Amma said human beings must learn to coexist peacefully with fellow humans, remain connected with God and live in harmony with nature.
“Pandemics, natural calamities and climate irregularities are warning calls for humanity to rethink its relationship with nature,” she said.
Amma observed that while compromise and reconciliation may work in conflicts between individuals, communities and nations, nature does not respond in the same manner.
“The only effective way to approach nature is by giving up ego, bowing down with humility and worshipping her with a heart filled with friendship, devotion and reverence,” she said.
She further emphasised that true coexistence is possible only when people recognise that the earth, its resources and prosperity must be shared collectively with fellow beings, animals and birds.
Union Minister for Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi, who attended the programme as chief guest, praised Amma’s contributions and said her work had extended beyond spirituality into several areas of social welfare and public service.
Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U T Khader said spiritual strength carries enduring value and helps public representatives address the problems faced by society more effectively.
Among those present were Swami Jitakamananda, MP Captain Brijesh Chowta, Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna, former minister Pramod Madhwaraj, Karnataka Government additional chief secretary Ritesh Kumar, Kishore Alva, Prakash Pai Peraje, Vedaprakash Shriyan, honorary presidents Dr Jeevaraj Sorake and CA Vaman Kamath, Shruthi Hegde, Vasanth Kumar Perla and members of the reception committee.
During the programme, honorary president Dr Y. Sanath Hegde shared his personal experiences as a follower of Amma and spoke about the positive transformations he witnessed in his life through her guidance.
Seva Samiti president Suresh Amin welcomed the gathering, while Dr Ashok Shenoy and Dr Nandita Shenoy compered the event.
As part of the Mahotsava celebrations, the Math launched and extended support to several welfare initiatives, including financial assistance for children undergoing heart surgeries, loan support for 1,200 members of the Amritashree self-help groups, seaweed farming projects aimed at strengthening coastal livelihoods and mental health awareness campaigns led from Mangaluru.
The celebrations also featured special poojas, darshan sessions, volunteer-led service activities, a free medical camp, annadanam and facilities for devotees arriving from across Karnataka and neighbouring states.