Humanitarian Amma hugs way through Coralville

By: Melissa Brownrigg – The Daily Iowan

Hundreds of Iowa City residents and travelers sat cross-legged, patiently waiting their turn to embrace Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, or Amma, “the Mother of All.”

Amma, a world-renowned humanitarian from India, embraces people of all backgrounds to spread her message of unconditional love and compassion.

Amma estimates that she has hugged more than 26 million people, said Toni Rubin, Amma project coordinator for Iowa and an Iowa City resident.

Over the years, Amma has created one of the largest disaster-relief programs, helping victims all over the world.

Although Amma usually tours larger cities, she was invited by Rubin to the Coralville Marriott, 300 E. Ninth St., on Wednesday and today.

Sharon Long, a Fairfield resident, was among those waiting in the crowd.

“I’ve seen her before, but I came here today mainly because I want to love the way that Amma does, and to be around her helps me to get closer to that,” she said.

Long also planned to ask for Amma’s love and support for her sick mother.

The crowd parted to allow Amma through, and the room vibrated with the sound of chants.

Amma touched peoples’ hands and flashed a smile as she made her way to the stage where she sat on a white platform painted with vines and flowers. The heavy scent of oils and perfumes wafted through the ballroom.

After meditation, Rubin introduced Coralville Mayor Jim Fausett, who said he was excited about Amma’s visit.

“We’re at a place where we really need some uplifting,” he said.

The mayor proclaimed Wednesday and today to be the “days of the hugging saint” and gave Amma with a necklace of flowers. They then embraced in a long hug, beginning the program.

Tokens given to participants signified when they should expect an embrace.

After the embrace, a Hershey’s kiss, and flower petals were given to the departing people. The gift is a form of prasad, which is a tradition in India, said Rob Sidon, a spokesman for Amma.

As one person left her arms, another rushed in. Amma grabbed and pressed each person close to her body, sometimes comforting those crying and chanting in her or his ear.

Although Amma does not speak English, Sidon doesn’t think it’s necessary.

“Frankly, the communication is nonverbal through a sort of energy,” he said.

Ulrike Selleck agreed.

“It’s like God is looking right at you,” she said. “It’s not so much the effect of the physical hug, but the energy that passes through the hug. It feels very healing and dissolves blocks you never knew you had.”

Through her interpreter, Swami Amrit, Amma reached out to those hit by the flooding.

“I’m deeply saddened by the natural calamity, but people should become aware of the changes and [that we’re] losing the balance of nature,” Amma said. “Those not affected should show affection and help others overcome their fears. My only request is people should turn to a righteous path.”

Booths at the event sold jewelry, T-shirts, pictures, and videos. All proceeds are used for Amma’s humanitarian activities, said Dan Marshall, a volunteer who has traveled with Amma for seven years.

Three hours into the program, Amma’s white sari was stained with makeup, tears, and sweat, but her smile still remained bright.

Sidon said Amma sometimes gives hugs for 24 hours, without stopping for a break.