KIRTAN FOUNDATIONS COURSE
The goal of this course is to give each participant a deep dive into the rich import and intent of Kirtan.
This course uniquely will focus on the teachings, history, culture, and music associated with this spiritual practice. Deepen your Kirtan experience with five easy to understand sessions that you will be able to study on your own time.
On completion you will have a comprehensive basic understanding of, familiarity with and sense of ownership over your Kirtan practice. If Kirtan is already a part of your life this course is an opportunity to expand your wisdom and evolve your experience.
DATES
RATES
include vegetarian meals, lodging, and sessions
About New Vrindaban
New Vrindaban is set in 2,200 acres of the majestic, peaceful Appalachian Mountains in rural West Virginia. This Bhakti community has been a place of pilgrimage for many thousands of visitors each year. Founded by students of Srila Prabhupada in 1968, this sacred village is world renowned for cow protection, simple living, holy pilgrimage, spiritual education, and above all, loving Krishna.
OFFERINGS
FOOD
Three complete plant-based Ayurvedic meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner). Including fresh daily juices (from fruits and vegetables), herbal teas, fruit, salads, and light snacks available throughout the day in our gathering space.
NATURE WALKS
Lose yourself in the vast and picturesque Appalachian landscapes and find yourself in contemplation and reflection.
COW THERAPY
The practice of cow therapy is centered on the inherent healing propensities of the cow—considered to be one of the seven mothers in the ancient Vedas. The cow’s warmer body temperature, slower heartbeat and mammoth size can make associating with them an incredibly soothing experience, and giving the animal a brushing or even getting licked is all part of the therapeutic encounter. Protecting cows is one of the most important activities of the New Vrindaban community.
THE BHAKTI PATH
Meet the residents of New Vrindaban and learn about their lifestyle and commitment to service. Discover new ways to see and celebrate the Divine and to honor all life.
ABOUT OUR TEACHER
Ananta Guaranga das
Kirtan Foundations Teacher
Born in the Bronx, NY to a Black/Hispanic family steeped in the music and art cultural watershed of the early 90s; Ananta’s artistic journey started early. His grandfather- an avid dancer- peppering the weekends with salsa parties. His uncle roamed the streets of NY tagging subway cars and making t-shirts- blurring the lines between fashion, graffiti and even hip hop. At age 9 his mother, a single mother of 5 and spiritual seeker, moved her family to Florida for a safer upbringing.
Moving to the Hare Krsna community in Central Florida dialed up the music. It took away the distractions of the city and replaced it with the deep, rich culture of Bhakti. The result? A lifelong dedication to a colorful blend of yoga practice, meditation and divine song.
Ananta is now a world traveled percussionist, singer and devotee specializing in Bhakti chants.
Retreat Schedule
Subject to Change
Thursday
3:00-7:00pm Check-in at Lodge
6:00pm Light Dinner (Bhakti Lounge)
7:00pm Opening Circle and Kirtan
Friday
6:00 am Morning Beverages (Bhakti Lounge)
6:00 am Bhakti Lounge opens
9:00am Breakfast (Bhakti Lounge)
9:45 am Session One: Welcome, Introduction to the Retreat
10:45 Break
11:15am Session Two
12:30 pm Lunch (Govinda’s Express)
1:30pm Individual Time (Practice session, Bodywork by appt 1:30-4 pm, hike, rest, peacock walk, snacks, etc.)
4:30 pm Session Three: Kirtan Instrumentation
5:30 pm Kirtan
6:30 pm Dinner
Saturday
6:00 am Bhakti Lounge opens
9:00am Breakfast (Bhakti Lounge)
9:45 am Session Four: VIP Palace Tour through Lense of Kirtan
10:45 Break
11:15am Session Five
12:30 pm Lunch (Govinda’s Express)
1:30pm Individual Time (Practice session, Body work by appt 1:30- 4pm,
hike, rest, peacock walk, snacks, etc.)
4:30 pm Session Six
5:30 pm Kirtan
6:30 pm Dinner
Sunday
7:30-9am Taking it Home (Yoga Shala)
9:30am Breakfast (Govinda's Express)
11am Check-out from Lodge
CHOOSE YOUR DATES
Cancellation Policy
100% refund for cancellation 3+ days before the retreat start date. (No refund after this time frame)
To cancel your retreat, email us directly at events@newvrindaban.com