World-renowned humanitarian and spiritual leader, Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma), returns to the Boston area to offer free programs and her famous loving embrace, 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m., July 15 and 18, and a retreat July 16 to 18, at the Best Western, in Marlborough. The summer programs feature inspirational music, meditation, spiritual discourse and personal blessings.

Known internationally as “The Hugging Saint,” Amma has embraced more than 32 million people around the globe. “According to Amma, when she embraces someone, it is a process of purification and inner healing,” says John Flanders, a volunteer coordinator for the July programs. “The Christian Science Monitor says that Amma spreads the healing qualities of universal motherhood, and what made the biggest impression on me was learning about all of the humanitarian work that she and her devotees perform all over the world,” adds Flanders.

Amma’s humanitarian activities include disaster relief, women’s empowerment, hunger prevention and slum renovation. More information about these and other projects can be found at EmbracingTheWorld.org.

Cost: Free. Location: Best Western Royal Plaza Trade Center, 181 Boston Post Rd., W. Marlborough. For more information, call 716-226-6223 or visit AmmaNewEngland.org.