A Goddess Among Us: The Divine Life Of Anandamayi Ma

Those who have read of Anandamayi Ma in Yogananda’s “Autobiography” have to have been intrigued by their brief glimpse of this saint in the book. I have read at least one other small account from another devotee. Swami Mangalananda’s larger treatment (but yet relatively short) is a treasure. In my very humble opinion (and who can speak with any actual authority on this?), having studied a lifetime, Anandamayi Ma is the greatest spiritual being that has graced this planet. By her own words, she had no karma; she was the incarnated response to the longings of the devotees and seekers of India. Her life and instructions to us must be considered by anyone seeking God.A little incident recounted in the book gives an idea of her stature. A sadhu, a long time practitioner of a certain kriya yoga technique, had reached a plateau - an advanced but stuck spiritual state - beyond which he could not move. He desperately sought help, going to Sri Aurobindo of Pondicherry, considered to be the greatest yogi in India at the time. Aurobindo told him, “I am familiar with the kriya you practice, and I am aware of the state you have attained. I further know how to proceed but, unfortunately, neither I nor any other yogi can instruct you in this matter as this is an advanced practice. The only person living who can help you is Ma Anandamayi. Go to her.” The sadhu was not disappointed.The book opens many aspects of her amazing life (86 years), her miracles, powers, journeys and stays through a good deal of India, and importantly, at least some of her spiritual instructions. My only little regret is one missing detail in an event of which I had read elsewhere, where Anandamayi Ma rushed off with a few devotees to a railway station, headed for an obscure little town and obscure house in the town where she had seen, in her inner way, that an older woman devotee was staying, broken hearted over having gone to the wrong place to see/meet Ma. Swami Mangalananda doesn’t mention that as Ma was a bit late getting tickets, the train engine was mysteriously held at the station, spinning its wheels, until she boarded. Perhaps a false detail? I don’t know, but given her spiritual stature, and given the many other events in the book, undoubtedly within her power.Swami Mangalananda is an American who came to her in India, it seems at 19, received initiation from Anandamayi Ma, and spent several years with her in her later years. One realizes, given this very early commitment to the spiritual path, that the Swami himself is a remarkable being. His love comes through, and the last chapter of the book is his own personal, interesting, moving and - from my view of Ma - greatly privileged experience. For those who want a glimpse of what God can do (or of what we can do in God), and yes, who want insight on the spiritual path unquestionably direct from the Divine Mother, you will be moved.

A wonderfully written and spiritually uplifting brief life story of one of India’s greatest saints and GOD incarnate of modern times. Despite being born in India, I was unaware of the details of her life except for a brief mention of her in the Autobiography of a Yogi . Thank you Swami Mangalanda!!

Tears of gratitude and grace. No need for more words. To read this is to long for what is real

Beautiful person. Gift to our society. Must read for spiritual lovers.

I enjoyed this introduction to Ma. It was well written and provided enough details for an intro and even mentioned that this is not a complete account.

This short book should serve as an introduction to the sacred personality that is Sri Anandamayi Ma.I give it 4 stars due to the fact that, although it was an enjoyable read, it lacks a considerable amount of depth. I have been a devotee of Ma for some time now and am already familiar with much of her life story and teachings. This book does not particularly offer a great deal of insight into a personality and life as deep and profound as Ma's. Largely, it is a casual glossing over of a small selection of some of the more notable episodes in her life. I would suggest this book to anyone who has never heard of Ma or encountered any of her teachings. It serves as a decent introduction but certainly not much more. If you are already familiar with the life and teachings of Ma and you are looking for a more in-depth study of her, I wouldn't suggest this particular book. For what it is, it is certainly enjoyable. But at this point in my personal relationship with Ma, I found it lacking a certain depth of insight and further information. However, as a devotee of Ma, I am still proud to have it on my shelf. Anything done in service to her radiates her loving presence and so I am happy to have it close.

really nice stories about this woman saint.

An awe inspiring look into the life and unfathomable effect of a devine incarnation. I learned of Ma from Paramahansa Yogananda's "Autobiography of a Yogi", and wanted to know more. This is such a remarkable surprise. I can not recommend it highly enough!

The book gives an idea about Sri Anandamai Maa, who she was and how blessed are we to get to know her and it's written very well. This book definitely has some unusual power, which could be felt while reading.

Recommend

This book is a moment to remember the Divine within us.

An easy read that is still transportive providing a true flavour and beautiful glimpse of Ma. Leaves you wanting more... With deep gratitude. 🙏

Good product