Kenya Welcomes Amma

A Report from Kenya, October 21 - 23, 2003

After the Toulon program, Amma made a quick 3-day trip to Nairobi, Kenya; it was her first visit to mainland Africa. It was a historic journey packed with unexpected moments with Amma. Not only was Amma going to award the Gandhi-King award for Non-violence to the next recipient, President Mwai Kibaki, but she was also going to touch the hearts of thousands of Kenyans with her darshan. Upon arriving at Nairobi International Airport, Amma was greeted by the Kenya Minister, Mr. Najib Belala on behalf of the government. She was warmly received by many devotees, airport officials and delegates of the next day's conference as well. Later on, at the house, Amma was greeted by hundreds of eager devotees who were so happy to meet Amma for the first time. Without a moment of rest, Amma received everyone who came to the house, speaking individually with each person. And, with the same selfless spirit, Amma again conducted an informal darshan that night and greeted hundreds of first timers. She not only gave darshan, but also sang many rousing bhajans. It was much like the year 1987, where the darshan was held in a living room packed with people. The sofa became her chair, apples became prasad (consecrated food), and the whole room a stage with live bhajans and laughter.

The next day was the momentous occasion where Amma would pass the Gandhi-King award for non-violence to President Mwai Kibaki. Held at the official State House Gardens, the ceremony began with live Acappella singing. Amma and the President soon arrived together and ascended the stage, and Amma gave a rousing talk, which received a standing ovation. The ceremony ended with the handing over of the award, the President's acceptance speech, followed by a cultural event by East African dancers and singers.

However, Amma's work in Kenya had just begun. With hardly any notice, and to the joy of her children, Amma decided to conduct a one-day public program in Nairobi on the very day of her flight! Despite only word of mouth advertising, over 2500 people arrived to get a glimpse of Amma. The hall was filled with Indians and Africans. Amma's singing in their native Swahili, the song "Iswar Tumhi" was a delight to all Kenyans present. Moreover, Amma sang bhajans in five Indian languages: Hindi, Telegu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Gujarathi. There were over 100 orphaned African children and nearly 30 elderly African women dancers from a nearby slum in Nairobi. The children were so happy to meet Amma and receive her divine hug. Many of them performed for Amma, reciting poetry, or singing a song. For a brief day in their lives, they were soothed by the touch of a Mother and were able to forget their problems.

Although the darshan line seemed endless and time was flying, Amma didn't waste a moment's time and saw all the devotees at the hall. Even at the airport, Amma gave darshan to many devotees without any rest. Finally, after a long day, Amma made it to the gate, where she again met with her traveling children and practiced a bhajan or two.

Amma's trip to Kenya was a beautiful non-stop river of Amma's Grace and compassion. Amma's children in Kenya were so happy to have finally hosted Amma and are eagerly praying: "Amma come back soon!"