10 minutes with…: Seek happiness from within, says Amma

Amritanandamayi Devi believes one can get only
traces of happiness by looking at the exterior.

2008/04/01

She is known as the ‘hugging saint’ the world over. Amritanandamayi Devi or simply ‘Amma’ of Kerala, whose hugs are treasured by many, is in Kuala Lumpur. DHARSHINI BALAN speaks to the globe-trotter on her signature style which has won followers everywhere.

Q: How extensive are your charitable activities in Malaysia?

A: There is a lot being done in Malaysia. The Amriteswari Foundation of Malaysia (AFM) has set up three community centres at Enggang Apartments in Bandar Kinrara, which takes care of 110 children and 46 single mothers.

The children are provided free tuition classes and uniforms while the mothers are being given vocational training to be self-sufficient.

The foundation has also adopted 10 poor families in Semenyih and their needs are being taken care of.
Q: What is ultimately the way to happiness?

A: Happiness is from within and not from the outside. One can get only traces of happiness by looking at the exterior.

By assimilating the right principles, outlook and attitude as well as living accordingly, one will attain peace and happiness.

Q: There have been a series of natural disasters lately. Is it Mother Nature’s way of protesting man’s wrongdoings?

A: The harmony of nature depends on human actions. When nature is disturbed through the cutting of forests and pollution, this harmony is disrupted. We should, therefore, take calamities as a warning from nature.

Q: How long will you go on hugging people?

A: I will do so as long as I am alive. I would rather wear out for society than rest not doing anything.

Q: If there is one thing in today’s world you would change, what it would be?

A: Values.

Q: What is lacking in society today?

A: Compassion.

Q: What is your message to the world?

A: We must have love and compassion. That is the real foundation of this world.

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