The Golden Temple of Lakshmi

Sri Sakthi Amma is a South Indian saint, the founder and guiding inspiration behind the Golden Temple of Lakshmi in Vellore (Sripuram Golden Temple).

In the southern land of Tamil Nadu, among hills and rivers, a girl was born who was destined to become a channel of the Divine Mother. From early childhood she dreamed of Lakshmi, of starlight, and of a temple that would descend to earth. Her name was Sri Sakthi Amma, and people simply called her Amma — Mother.

At sixteen she experienced a revelation: her entire being was filled with the energy of Shakti, the primordial Power of the Universe. From that day on, Amma’s life became service — through her eyes, hands, and heart, the Divine Mother herself was revealed.

At the dawn of the new millennium, Amma gathered her disciples and said:
— Lakshmi must appear to people in a sanctuary that becomes a light and a reminder of the eternal wealth of the heart.

Thus, in Vellore the Sripuram Golden Temple was built. Its walls and domes were covered with pure gold, and the temple’s layout was designed in the form of the sacred Sri Yantra star — a symbol of Lakshmi’s energy. Pilgrims walk along this star-shaped mandala so that each step becomes a prayer and an inner purification.

The Ashram and Service

Beside the temple arose the Ashram of Sri Sakthi Amma — a place of silence and practice. Here disciples chant mantras, perform pujas, and learn the art of bhakti — love for the Divine.

But Amma always said:
— What use is worship if someone nearby is suffering?

Therefore, next to the ashram she founded a hospital, supported almost entirely by her trust. Thousands of poor people receive free treatment, food, and care there.

Amma also established schools, shelters, and village nutrition programs. For many local residents she has become not only a spiritual mother, but a real protector, provider, and healer.

A Living Shrine

For some, Amma is an embodiment of Lakshmi; for others, a manifestation of Mother Shakti — but for everyone she is a heart that loves unconditionally.
The Golden Temple has become the symbol of her mission: the outer radiance of gold merely reflects the inner light of purity, love, and devotion.

And so pilgrims who come to Sripuram leave not only with the gifts of the Goddess, but with the feeling that the Mother herself has touched their lives.