Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone attend a retreat or public program with Amma?

Yes. Amma welcomes and blesses all people from all cultures, backgrounds and religious traditions.

What is the difference between a public program and a retreat?

Amma's public programs are free of charge and open to the public. Retreats require a fee and you must register in advance. Please see the general program schedule and retreat information details.

Is the public program similar to the retreats?

No. There are many special programs during the retreat. Although darshan is given by Amma at both retreats and public programs, the retreats provide more opportunities to interact and be with Amma. Retreat programs include a special meditation with Amma, a meal served by Amma, question and answer session with Amma, a guided morning meditation by Amma's senior disciples and daily spiritual classes by Amma's senior Swamis.This year, the IAM (Integrated Amrita Meditation) technique is also being offered as part of the retreat.

Retreats have a with-accomodations or off-site option for accommodations. Meals are included in the retreat fee with either choice.

Can you explain what types of events take place during the public programs?

Amma's morning programs begin at 10:00 am when she enters the hall. It's nice to be there when she enters the hall (however, you are free to come and go at any time). After Amma enters the hall, there is a short guided meditation. After the meditation Amma begins to individually receive everyone who has come for her blessing.

A personal blessing with Amma is called darshan. Amma's darshan is unique. She spends time with and hugs each person who comes to her. Amma's morning darshan usually lasts until 2:00 or 3:00 pm.

Amma's evening program begins at 7:30 pm. Evening programs begin with a spiritual talk by Amma or one of her Swamis or close disciples. After the talk, Amma sings bhajans (devotional songs) with everyone until approximately 9:30 pm. The singing is followed by a short meditation and closing prayers. The evening darshan begins after prayers and generally lasts until 2:00 or 3:00 am.

During darshan, bhajans are sung by Swamis and other devotees. Many people take advantage of the highly charged spiritual atmosphere and meditate or pray during darshan. You may also want to visit the bookstore and gift shop.

Vegetarian meals and snacks are for sale for a small fee. Chairs will be available in the program hall; however, if you wish to sit on the floor, you may want to bring a mat or a cushion. We request that everyone limit their talking in the hall while darshan is taking place to help maintain a peaceful atmosphere.

How do I get in line for Amma's blessing (darshan)?

Darshan means receiving a blessing in the form of a compassionate hug from Amma. To receive darshan you must first get a darshan token. Darshan tokens usually become available one hour before the program and they are always still available for several hours into the program. A host or hostess stationed at the entrance to the hall can assist you in getting a darshan token and answering any questions you might have.

If you are receiving Amma's darshan for the first time, please inform the person who is giving out the tokens as preference is given to newcomers.

Darshan tokens are numbered and are distributed on a first come, first served basis. A sign near the front of the hall will tell you when it is time for you to enter the darshan line. Please get your token in the early part of the program.

What should I do if I have special needs or am disabled and cannot wait in the regular line for darshan?

If you have special needs or disabilities, please inform the host or hostess who is stationed at the entrance to the hall. They will seat you in a special section close to Amma and you will be assisted to Amma for darshan as needed. Disabled persons may also be dropped off at the entrance to the hall. Parking assistants will be available to help you.

Can you explain how Devi Bhava program is different from the other evening programs?

The Devi Bhava program is a celebration of the Divine Mother. Devi Bhavas usually begin at 7:00 pm on weekdays. The program begins with a talk by Amma which usually lasts 30 minutes. After the talk, Amma performs a puja (or ritualistic worship of the Divine) with everyone. The evening darshan begins after the puja and may last as late as 4:00 am or 6:00 am. The program concludes with Amma blessing the group by showering everyone with flower petals.

During Devi Bhava darshans Amma dresses in colorful saris and reveals her innate Divine nature. Devi Bhavas are the programs where mantras are given by Amma

Are there any programs available for young children?

Usually programs are available for children ages four through ten, pre-teens and teens during certain hours. Children must be under the supervision of an adult at all times.

Are there any other customs or regulations during the programs?

Out of respect for the Indian culture, we recommend modest dress. For examples, tank tops, shorts, tight leggings and short skirts are not recommended.

Children must be under the supervision of an adult at all times. You should receive your token in the early part of the evening.

We ask that you come for Amma's darshan only once a day. However, on Devi Bhava days you may request a token for darshan both in the morning and in the evening. Sleeping in the hall during program is not permitted. Sleeping anywhere on the program grounds in your car or camper is not permitted.

No use of alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs is allowed on the program premises. Also, no audio or video recording or photography is permitted.