She is called Sri Mata Amritanandamayi, the "Mother of Immortal Bliss",though to many, she is simply known as Amma or Mother. With her holistic vision, Amma works tirelessly to nourish individuals and communities through her spiritual activities, and humanitarian projects. Indeed, every moment of Amma's life is dedicated towards cultivating a just and compassionate world, one in which selflessness is the core.

As the Washington Post explains: "During her travels, Amma asks for nothing, no money, no food, no lodging. But with donations, she has organized 24 schools, and three orphanages, as well as hospitals, hospices, and shelters for battered women in India."

Through the example of her life, Amma demonstrates that true service to humanity is possible when one puts aside one's own concerns for the good of others. So approachable is she that many have come to realize in her a love that is archetypal of "everybody's Mother."

Born in 1953 in a poor fishing village in the state of Kerala in Southern India, Amma heeded the call to help others since early childhood. At the age of nine, her schooling ended when she was obligated to perform full time family chores. Working arduously and without complaint, Amma never had a Guru (spiritual mentor), nor was she exposed to philosophical books. Her unmistakable self-realization and wisdom seemed to spark from a constant remembrance of God.

By observing Amma, it becomes obvious that she exhibits nothing of what we would call a personal life. Sleeping merely a couple of hours a day, she is entirely dedicated to removing human suffering. Her outreach takes two principal forms – First, the darshan programs, where she reaches out on an individual basis with her unique hug-blessing, and second, her charities, designed to improve people’s lives on a broader scale.