Kerala Government Honors Mata Amritanandamayi for Promoting Malayalam Language and Culture Globally
Amritapuri (Kollam): The Kerala State Government extended its honor to Mata Amritanandamayi on Friday, commemorating the silver jubilee of her historic address to the world in Malayalam at the United Nations General Assembly. The felicitation ceremony, held at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s Amritapuri campus, saw Minister for Culture, Saji Cheriyan, presenting the award on behalf of the state government.
Minister Saji Cheriyan emphasized that Mata Amritanandamayi, often referred to as ‘Amma,’ successfully introduced the cultural values of Kerala to the global stage through her mother tongue, Malayalam. He stated that her efforts proved the strength of the Malayalam language and culture to the world, delivering a powerful message to those who might overlook their own language. The Minister further conveyed that this recognition by the state government is not merely an honor but a cultural awakening, and the Chief Minister also extended his greetings and respect.
The event, part of the Amrita Varsham 72 celebrations (Amritanandamayi’s birthday festivities), recreated the moment when the voice of ‘Kairali’ (Kerala) resonated across the world, witnessed by thousands gathered at Amritapuri. C.R. Mahesh MLA, speaking at the event, remarked that Amritapuri has transformed into a microcosm of the world. Uma Thomas MLA urged everyone to embrace the words of Amma, who championed the melodious Malayalam language globally, and to live with love and brotherhood.
In her response, Mata Amritanandamayi stated that she dedicates this honor to the Malayalam language itself, acknowledging those who shaped its form and essence. She also encouraged all parents to inspire their children to promote the Malayalam language.
Several dignitaries honored Mata Amritanandamayi by garlanding her, including BJP State Vice President Dr. K.S. Radhakrishnan, I.G. Lakshman Guguloth, Kerala Law Academy Director Advocate Nagaraj Narayan, actor Devan, and Marunadan Malayali’s Shajan Skariah. Swami Amritaswarupananda Puri, Vice Chairman of the Math, delivered the welcome address, and Swamini Suvidyamrita Prana expressed gratitude.