24–25 November, Rijswijk, The Hague, The Netherlands – Europe Yatra 2025
Amma held a two-day program in Rijswijk, at De Broodfabriek Expo Hall. Outside, the wind and rain made it feel like –6°C, but inside the atmosphere was warm with devotion. Amma’s stage had a beautiful backdrop featuring Vincent van Gogh’s famous painting Almond Blossom.
The Mayor of Rijswijk, Mrs. Huri Sahin, welcomed Amma with great delight: “It is a great honor for me to welcome you today to Rijswijk. Amma’s presence is a source of inspiration for many. All over the world she touches people with her message of compassion, care, and connectedness.
As you know, the name Amma means ‘mother.’ A mother figure stands for warmth, protection, attention, and a deeply felt responsibility for the well-being of others. This symbolism touches me particularly, because as mayor I also, in a certain sense, fulfill a role sometimes affectionately referred to as the ‘mother of the city’: someone who, within the possibilities of the office, strives to foster a safe, just, and caring community.
Of course, our responsibilities differ, but the underlying values—caring for people, being close, paying attention to those who face difficulties—connect us today in a special way. Especially in a time when living together is sometimes under pressure, her words and her example remind us how important it is to continue working toward understanding, compassion, and humility. I find that especially valuable.”
Mr. Kumar Tuhin, Ambassador of India to the Netherlands, shared: “In a world that often feels divided by borders and beliefs, Amma arrives here waving no flags except the flag of the human heart. She brings only open arms and a mother’s boundless embrace. Millions, like me and you all, have felt seen, accepted, and healed. In today’s world that sometimes feels cold, hurried, and disconnected, Amma reminds us of something Dutch people have always understood deeply: the value of human warmth and solidarity. When Amma hugs you, you do not feel you are meeting a stranger from India—you are coming home to your own mother.”
Mrs. Aarti Ramsodit, Senator—Parliament, reflected: “Amma belongs to all identities. I am grateful for the fact that Amma is amongst us for the 21st time, with all of you. Amma is that true love—love for each other, love for the world. The energy that is she radiates is even beyond Rijswijk, even beyond the Netherlands. It radiates to the world.”
Across both days, Amma led meditation, gave satsang, and sang bhajans. To the delight of the devotees Amma sang a bhajn in Dutch language. Amma addressed the gatherings in Malayalam, with translation into Dutch so all could receive the message.
Over 412 people received mantra from Amma. On the second day, Amma led Atma Puja for world peace and harmony. At the end of darshan, as the hall clapped in joy, Amma danced a few steps to the tune of “rarari rararo.”
As Amma prepared to leave, many devotees wept—already missing her, wondering when they would see her again and some out of gratitude for her invaluable visit to thier country.
After the program, Amma visited the ashram in Zeist and stayed overnight before departing for Amritapuri, concluding ten programs across eight countries in forty days.
-Kannadi
