Hug It Out

Sure, hugging is popular now, thanks to the smarmy, cocksure gents of Entourage, who triggered a resurgence of hugging chic. But where were these guys 30 years ago, when Amma — the renowned "Hugging Saint" — began her now-legendary mission of peace via embrace? Amma has been hugging since Turtle and Drama were merely gleams in a hopeful producer's eye.Tonight at 7, catch a free presentation by one of Amma's senior swamis, Dayamrita Chaitanya, at Unity Temple on the Plaza (707 West 47th Street). He will discuss the life and work of Amma, whose efforts at global harmony include humanitarian projects, care for the poor and orphaned, and fundraising for tsunami and Hurricane Katrina relief. The presentation will include a question-and-answer session, devotional rituals and, one assumes, some of the close contact that made the movement famous. For more information, call 913-345-9442 or see amma.org.
Tue., March 4, 7 p.m., 2008