Thiruvananthapuram/Kollam: The 68th birthday of spiritual guru Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, known to her devotees as Amma and most famously referred internationally as “hugging saint,” is being celebrated at Amritapuri Ashram in Karunagappally, Kollam, today.

“The birthday celebrations were restricted due to COVID-19 pandemic. We we will be unable to gather at Amritapuri or other centres. Therefore, we celebrate Amma’s 68th birthday as a day of prayer and selfless service, observing spiritual practices at 6 pm,” Ashram sources said.

“Nature’s fury continues unabated and humankind continues to witness not only the Coronavirus pandemic, but also other diseases, natural disasters and human conflicts. Here, what is the solution? We need to purify our thoughts and actions,” Amma said in a message.

“The negative thoughts that fill the human mind and the selfish, harmful actions that result from them are deadlier than even biological or nuclear weapons. The atmosphere has become polluted with such thoughts and actions,” Amma added.

“The need of the hour is to ensure our lives are established in the eternal principles of Sanātana Dharma, which our ancient sages has passed down to us,” the Spiritual Guru said.

Mata Amritanandamayi Devi would take part in special prayers for world peace at Amritapuri Ashram today. The Guru Paduka Puja will be performed in the evening, the sources added.