by Shantala Sriramaiah | Jul 29, 2026 | Chanting practice, Festival chanting
At the end of the course of study, the teacher of the Taittirīya Upaniṣad gives the departing student a parting address. It is a set of plain instructions. Speak the truth. Do what is right. Do not be negligent about your recitation. Look after your parents and your...
by Shantala Sriramaiah | Oct 13, 2025 | Chanting practice, Festival chanting
The Festival of Renewal Diwali marks the victory of light over darkness – a time to rekindle clarity, joy and auspiciousness.For me, it is also a moment to turn inward, to engage in sādhana – a daily practice that aligns sound, thought and intention.This...
by Shantala Sriramaiah | Feb 7, 2025 | Chanting practice, Festival chanting
The Śrī Rudram is one of the most powerful and transformative hymns of the Vedas, a sacred invocation that reveals the all-pervasive nature of Rudra—both as the cosmic force of destruction and renewal, and as Śiva, the auspicious reality that is the foundation of...
by Shantala Sriramaiah | Jan 6, 2025 | Chanting practice, Festival chanting
For the last four years, I have had the privilege of teaching a worldwide group of dedicated Śiva devotees the magnificent prayer known as Rudram. This prayer, a jewel from the Kṛṣṇa Yajur Veda, is both a challenge and a blessing—a journey that transforms all who...
by Shantala Sriramaiah | Dec 11, 2024 | Festival chanting
On this auspicious occasion of Gītā Jayanti, while I will miss the joy of gathering with my community for a live practice, I’m delighted to share a recorded session from last year along with one of my favorite book recommendations. Though nothing compares to the...
by Shantala Sriramaiah | Oct 12, 2024 | Chanting practice, Festival chanting
Vijayadaśamī, also known as Dussehra, holds immense significance in Hindu culture as the day of victory, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. It marks the culmination of the Navaratri festival and is traditionally associated with the victory of Lord Rāma over...
