If we can bring a moment of happiness to just one person's life, it will greatly enrich our own life.
— Amma
Amma shared these words during a tour stop in California, explaining that it is what we give, not what we take, that determines the value of our life. This is the essence of Amma's Tours: Amma is a living example of giving, and thousands leave inspired to serve others selflessly.
Seattle
Amma's US tour began in Seattle on July 4, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency in Bellevue. The hall was packed, with long lines extending into the hotel corridors and lobby. Dignitaries came to welcome Amma, including Prakash Gupta, a career diplomat with the Indian Foreign Service; Jared Nieuwenhuis, Deputy Mayor and Councilmember; and acclaimed young tenor Dustin Lee Hiles.
Oakland & the Bay Area
Three days of retreat followed at the Oakland Marriott City Center, drawing several hundred people. During an inspiring question-and-answer session, Amma addressed the difference between self-confidence and egotism with many examples, earning a grateful applause.
Los Angeles
At the Hyatt Regency in Irvine, the hall overflowed. Among the notable attendees were Maria Shriver, former First Lady of California, and Christina Schwarzenegger, who both sought Amma's darshan. Brahmacharini Amrita Chaitanya gave an introductory satsang, describing how "it is that relentless and entire giving of herself at every second, day-in and day-out, that makes her the most precious treasure."
Albuquerque
When Amma arrived in Albuquerque, New Mexico on July 19, heavy rains brought life to the desert setting, and a rainbow appeared in the sky as she continued to embrace people. Her four-day stop at Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town included a retreat from July 20–22.
Washington, DC
Brahmachari Chidanandamrita reflected in a spiritual talk: "When our heart gets overwhelmed with love, logic fails. There is only one quality that distinguishes Amma from us — unconditional love. If we can assimilate that one quality, we can also become Amma."
Boston
Amma arrived in the Boston area on July 31 for a three-day program — her first visit since COVID-19 — with crowds gathering from the early morning hours. Brahmachari Sachinmayamrita shared Amma's words that it is better to wear the body out doing something beneficial for society than to let it rust away in inactivity. The days were enriched by a traditional African dance performance by Ammaya Dance & Drum.
New York
A bustling three-day program at the Javits Center welcomed thousands, including Tony Award winner Ben Vereen; Elizabeth Gilbert, best-selling author of Eat, Pray, Love; and scholar Dr. Sthaneshwar Timalsina of San Diego State University.
Chicago
Brahmacharini Amrita Chaitanya shared how Amma adapts perfectly to every person and situation: "One moment she is talking seriously to someone about the intricacies of their PhD research topic. With the next breath, she is consoling someone who has lost a family member. Moments later she can be seen joking and laughing with children."
Those who joined the 2024 US Tour agree it was a celebration of pure love. Through her simple act of giving a hug, Amma inspires people to serve society and extend kindness to others. May all beings be peaceful and happy.