Back to Basics Summer Retreat
June 27 - July 5
Ananda Kanan, MO




Children's Program

Aparna Devi and I headed up the Children's Program each morning, leading Circle Time, which included spiritual songs, kiirtan and a meditation story. Afterwards, the children enjoyed free play, art and crafts. We had a small group of chidren ages 3-5 y/o, and a few 2 year olds with their parents.

For the children's performance, Aparna Devi and I crafted a story from the Prabhat Samgiita, Raingin Pari Bale - a fairy song about service and 'moving towards the light'. In the adapted story, the fairy moves through the forest to find people and animals in need. She takes them around the light, while singing kiirtan, and tends to their needs.

We created a forest scene by using chairs and green saris. The home was constructed of cardboard boxes, painted red by the children and teachers. We were able to find the perfect costumes in the supply room, along with red and yellow fabric for the fire.

The sweet story characters were a fairy, a small boy, kittens, birds, and a baby deer. Two of the mothers dressed up with their two year olds in order to pull them in, less they run too far out of orbit! The fairy hid under the red and yellow silks. When it came time for her to emerge, the audience let out a breathtaking sigh, "Ahhh!"

Two older girls, Cirsamita and Priyanka, who have been studying Hindustani vocals, did a fantastic job accomanying me with the kiirtan and song. Young Anjali didn't miss a beat on the djembe, and played the 6 beat rhythm with great ease.

Performances and Kiirtans

A new devotee expressed how she was moved to tears during the final, etheric kiirtan of the Dhyana Workshop. I supported Rishi's groovin', gospel-inspired songs at the Cultural Evening Program; then sang a Bossa Nova-laced, original composition. Enthusiastic sisters joined me during Akhanda Kiirtan: Rekha on flute, Mukti on drum, Didi Ananda Ragamaya, Mokshadevi, and Didi Prema on vocals. The rhythmic kiirtans had everyone dancing in ecstacy!

Morning Star Children’s Camp
June 14-25, 2010

This June, I directed a summer day camp at Ananda Girisuta (Prama Institute) for a beautiful group of young children.

We began the mornings with a long Circle Time that included spiritual songs, dancing and singing kiirtan, meditation, yoga postures, and spiritual readings and discussion. The days were filled with art and craft projects, handwork, games, water play, nature walks, and trips to the river. Our local farmer Jiivan Mukta hosted the children at Raven Ridge Farm to harvest food for their lunch, which they helped prepare and ate with vigor! Visvamitra took the children on the mystic Cliffs Trail, and led them in a Native American exercise. Maya Devi taught the children to draw intricate mandalas, and told them supernatural stories from her native Philippines.

Updates: Spring 2010

Yoga of Silence, February 26-28, 2010
The Prama Institute, Marshall NC

A weekend devoted to silence and inner reflectiong, with intensive meditation practises. The kiirtan and bhajans held a deeper meaning to us all in the absence of words.


The Circle Project, April 17-18, 2010
Bend of the Ivy Lodge, Marshall NC
w/Patti Digh, David Robinson, and Visvamitra, aka Sid Jordan

It's always a special experience leading bhajans and kiirtan Heart Circles that assist people in coming to know their true, inner self. Patti, David, and Visvamitra are three of my favorite people with whom to do this. Visit Patti's website to learn more: Patti Digh


Yoga Detox Retreat, April 30-May 2, 2010
The Prama Institute, Marshall NC
w/Dharmavedananda

I led the kiirtan and bhajans morning, noon and night; and participated in the program. Dada Dharmavedananda ND, is an expert in yogic health treatments and has a successful center in the Philippines. Treatments are affordable, as to accommodate people from all walks of life: Ananda Marga Wellness Center


Vegetarian Dinner and Silent Auction, May 15, 2010
World Music Concert, Benefit for WWD-F
Unitarian Universalist Church, Asheville NC

The Ananda Marga community rallied together for this event and came up with some unique auction gifts, as well as a gourmet buffet fit for royalty! I was accompanied by two young, upcoming musicians: Jagannath on tablas, and Anjali on djembe. The benefit was a success, as we raised funds for a local women's land project.

Performance Updates: Asheville

October 1
A group of us performed kiirtan, Prabhat Samgiita, and bhajans at Mantra Cafe. Many Margiis came out to support us and sing along. This is a new venue that we hope to use in the near future.

October 3
I spent a day singing kiirtan and songs at Green Life Foods, the social hub of Asheville. Working hand in hand with Maya Devi, we raised relief funds for flood victims in the Philipines.

October 17, Diipavali - The Festival of Lights
I spent 3 weeks at ArtSpace Charter School making diipas and singing songs with the 3rd grade classes, with a final presentation for 3rd and 7th grades, including several staff and parents. Prashanta accompanied me on tabla and it was a great time, exposing the children to Indian culture, kiirtan, food and good vibrations!

November 7-15
Weekend workshops at Bend in the Ivy, and Prama Institute retreat centers. Dr. Sid Jordan (aka Visvamitra) and I presented Heart Circle kiirtans, where we sing healing kiirtan for participants. It was a profoundly transforming experience for all involved, and I look forward to being able to serve more people with 'more love'.♥

December 4-5
I just came from a wonderful, wintry women's retreat at Ananda Giirisuta where we sang and danced in abandonment, chanted and enjoyed deep meditations, ate way too many sweets, and strategized our next moves for the development of WWD-F. It was also my first snow in the Smokey Mountains - a real treat!

Diipavali Festival at the Prama Institute

Several devotees arrived early to cook and help set the diipas on the puja table, and throughout the dome. Everyone brought their favorite dish and several sweets, and Sister Miirabai brought prasad. Many new friends joined the celebration.

We began with Diipavali Prabhat Samgiitas, kiirtan and meditation. It seemed as if the Supreme and all of the devajonis (luminous beings) were singing along with us, as we felt warmth and love surround us. After meditation, Sister Haripriya read 3 Vaniis (spiritual verses) related to 'the light'. Didi Ananda Usa gave an inspiring talk on her experiences of Diipavali in India: children throwing crackers at her feet; tandava and kaoshiki demonstrations. I told the story of Diipavali - The Great Goddess with the help of Jiivanmukta on tablas. Didi led a long, concentrated kaoshiki, (spiritual dance given by Parvati) and the brothers gave a Tantric warrior tandava (spiritual dance for men given by Shiva) demonstration! We blessed the food with kiirtan and had a wonderful feast. Afterwards, fireworks for the children, and a warm bonfire capped the evening.

We all felt special grace in our hearts with our little efforts to help dispell the darkness with our light.

'Women We Are' on Democracy Now!

A colleague of mine heard the title song from 'Women We Are' on the Democracy Now! television show sometime in May. I imagine Gloria Steinem brought it to the studio to be played on Mother's Day, as she had a copy of the CD and loves that song. What a great thrill and honor to have one's music played on such a prestigious show.

Peace Camp Houston, July 13-17

Peace Camp is run by a group of wonderful women whose goal is to bring peace consciousness to children ages 5-11. Children age 12 and up become junior teachers and help run the camp. The curriculum is developed by a master teacher and includes nature studies, arts and crafts, profile studies, story telling, cooperative games, NVC and yoga. This is my 4th year presenting Neohumanist Education including kiirtan and meditation.

Peace Camp, sponsored by the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, is held at the pristine Cameron Retreat Center in downtown Houston, and at a local women's shelter. In 2007, we served a community of families affected by Hurricane Katrina.

If you are interested in presenting at Peace Camp, please contact Lynn Furay

Mark your calendars for Peace Camp next year!

Music and Poetry @ Northwoods Unitarian Church
The Woodlands, TX

I performed with the The Northwoods Stencil Band at this venue. There were several wonderful poets who presented their works, while the band and I provided original music in between readings. The music and poetry reflected social and spiritual life.

Circle of Love

Some of you have asked me where I have been playing lately. Well dear friends, I have been working as a kindergarten teacher in a Waldorf school. As an artist, I couldn't ask for a better job!

The Waldorf curriculum is presented through song, movement and story. The children are beautiful little gems, and I enjoy being with them every single day! Our school is backed up to a wooded park with a magical pond nearby. We sing through the day, enjoy the outdoors, eat whole foods, and joyfully express creativity through imaginary play, painting, coloring, baking, modeling, and crafting.

International Women's Day, 3/07/09

The Second Annual International Women's Day Celebration, sponsored by Creative Women Unite, took place this year at Bohemeos Cultural Center in downtown Houston. Some of the most amazing artists came out to present: Danza Azteca, Seltas Dance Troup, Freak-in the Frame, Maria Palacios, Agua Fuego, and Queen Sheba just to name a few. It was a wonderful tapestry of women of color, singing and dancing together; sharing stories and visions for the future. Powerful artwork decorated the walls, and the thread of unity embraced us all.

I implored spoken word artist/author Maria Palacios to collaborate with me on her powerful piece, Pescadoras de Esperanza: We are Seekers of Hope. Weaving different chants throughout the poem, we felt the Great Mother with us all. I sang to the Madre Divina, and asked us all to raise our consciousness to help heal the earth. We ended with the Universal Chant, which brought a calm vibration to the most warm and receptive crowd.

I thank you mujeres for hosting this annual chance to come together and "be as one".

Shining The Light after Ike: A Healing Circle, 11/15/08

Co-hosted by The Texas Southern University Museum Volunteer Circle

The Texas Southern University of Houston presented an afternoon of healing and hope to rejuvenate the spirit in the wake of Hurricane Ike - a program featuring poets, dancers and singers. There were spoken word artists, young and old; and an ethereal Praise Dance troupe, subtle and warm.

As I explained the meaning of the Universal Mantra to the audience, Sister PK handed out instruments for others to play along, and Sister Mama held up the plaque my son Jagannath had made, for everyone to read:

Baba Nam Kevalam

Love is All There Is

We had great fun, and everyone in the house enjoyed singing along. At the end of the event, the docent of the museum was so inspired, she asked to keep the plaque so she could remember the mantra! Another docent's father who had picked up the acharina, revealed to her for the first time that he had formally been a flute player. She was grateful for the opportunity given to him to rekindle his passion.

RAWA 50th Anniversary, 7/06/08

The 50th Anniversary of Renaissance Artists and Writers Association (RAWA), took place at the Ananda Kanan Retreat Center in MO, June 29th-July 5th.

We opened with a dynamic Prabhat Samgiita, speaking of the mystical qualities of Krisna. Krsnatma helped out with Spanish guitar, while Dada Pranesh and Mahesh kept the rhythm strong. Anadi and Dada Vishvarupanandaji gave a cool presentation on poetry and movement.

I was in charge of the RAWA Cultural Evening Program and put together a balanced mix of musical acts. We had some beautiful violin and fiddle music by Caetanya and Danapati. Krsnatma grooved us all with a bi-lingual, political song, asking us to get up and start a revolution; and Bhagvanti Devi sang a sweet Prabhat Samgiita.

Tuesday morning, I was on a panel of RAWA artists, giving our collective thoughts on how to be responsible artists in the world. Devashish reminded us the art of surrender - that the Supreme Source is the one moving the art through us, we are just the vehicle. He also emphasised the need to craft our art in order to present it well. Jiivadhara Devi gave a more female perspective of serving through art. She shares her poetry with those who are in need, and gives anonymously. Film maker Anadi is able to bring service projects to the media through his work at a news station. He is working on a full feature spiritual based film.

Wednesday morning, Didi Ananda Vibha and I gave a workshop on Prabhat Samgiita. We talked about our personal experiences, and our guru's teachings regarding Prabhat Samgiita, and invited Dada Priyakrsnanandaji to tell stories. This, we interspersed with collective singing of songs. We heard much positive feedback and look forward to the upcoming Prabhat Samgiita Retreat in Vermont.

There were three, wonderful weddings this summer, and I was honored to bring the music to them all. At the last minute, I was asked to sing a Spanish song at Giita and Paresh's wedding (Paresh is from Mexico). I invited my good friend KrnaPriya (from Colombia) to sing along with me. The kiirtans at the end were enhanced with good friends and my little Prashanta on tabla.

I was asked to present something on the Bhajan Revival Evening, and chose to sing two Spanish songs with my sister Ishvari. We rehearsed last minute, trying on our best Mariachi voices, laughing with our compadres over mistakes in the lyrics. In spite of it all, we were able to pull it off with tact.

This retreat had the most participants from Latin America than ever before - most of them from Mexico - so I encouraged them to present something special. They did a wonderful Mayan play with multi-media, movement, and colorful, native costumes. For the finale, I led a Mayan chant with strong drummers and hand percussionists. Some told me that this was their favorite presentation of the whole retreat!

This was a sweet retreat with art presentations in all medias. There were beautiful paintings displayed throughout the campus, films on service projects and spiritual cinema, wonderfully rich workshops helping us all see the artists within. The most beautiful were the kiirans and meditations, even sweeter and more subtle than before!

Creative Women Unite: Celebrating International Women’s Day, 3/08/08

This lively, multimedia event was held at the Willow Street Pump Station and sponsored by UHD Cultural Enrichment Center. Women of all colors, hues, and walks of life were there, from newborns to great grandmothers; African American and Mexican women wearing their brightest and most colorful native costumes. It was like a garden of humanity. Many brothers were also there, to support the women in their lives. Around 300 people attended.

Danza Azteca opened the event on the greenery outside. It was moving to experience perhaps the only all women Aztec dance troupe. They lead us in ceremony, burning sage and brushing all who stood around the circle. And then they danced with great intention, feathers reaching towards the sky, adorned feet pounding into the ground. One could feel the presence of Spirit as these sisters sang, drummed and danced to the native songs of Azteca.

The main hall showcased art from the women’s community and performances. Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo was a prominent theme, as several Latin American artists presented. The Real School provided puppets, art supplies, and extra hands for children, who joyfully rolled down grassy hills leading to the bayou. A sacred space was provided for a panel discussion on sisterhood, and films on women. Noteworthy were the art cars displaying goddesses from around the world and ‘Women Who Rock!’ art.

The women’s poetry and song was intimately touching. We were inspired by all who stood for unity. “We don’t want to fight - white, black, Asian and Chicano. We want to bring something positive, joyful. We want to create peace”.

I attended as a representative of WWD-F and sang songs from Women We Are. Dada Hitendranandaji accompanied me on tablas. I made several wonderful new contacts, with the hopes to hold a future fund raiser for the Managua clinic project and to explore ways to collaborate with my newfound creative sisters.

This event was not to be missed, as it is a rare occasion indeed for women to come together to honor one another, and feel free to be who they truly are.

For more information on upcoming events, go to: http://myspace.com/creativewomenunite

KPFT 90.1, Pacifica Radio Highlights

The Peace Hour Show, 3/07/08. In honor of International Women’s Day, The Peace Hour Radio Show, KPFT featured music from Women We Are. There was also a short segment of Didi Ananda Usa talking about Ananda Marga women's projects: KPFT Archives Click on March 7.

The Peace Hour Show, 1/25/08. A short segment regarding the teachings of Lord Shiva in honor of Rev. Martin Luther King's birthday. Please take the time to listen to some of the contributions of Sadhashiva to our human society. The segment comes at the last 15 minutes:
KPFT Archives Click on January 25th. To purchase the complete book on the life and spiritual teachings of Lord Shiva, written by Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji, go to this link: Nama Shivaya Shantaya.

Whole Mother Show, 01/09/08. A short talk on the positive results of Waldorf Education from the eyes of a mother. This segment is in the second half hour of the show.

The Peace Hour Show, 2/09/07. Co-hosted for pledge drive, featured the Ananda Marga Education project: The Fairy’s Flowers, and spoke about Neohumanist Education. The Fairy’s Flowers CDs were used as premiums, and we raised double the amount of money needed for the show.

Fire in Our Eyes, Flowers in Our Hearts: Spiritual Women’s Stories, 2/06/08

This book has taken several years to complete, and has finally been published!

Fire in Our Eyes, Flowers in Our Hearts is a collection of essays by Tantric women. The stories told here capture the diversity of women's spiritual experience exploring the struggles and triumphs of spiritual life. The emphasis of the book is upon feminine spirituality and the ways in which women experience and express their spirituality.

The Waldorf Channel, 1/27/08

Kristie Karima Burns hosts this wonderful website. She is featuring the Neohumanist children's story: The Fairy's Flowers on her radio show. Snuggle up with your little ones, and take a listen.

Ananda Kanan Winter Retreat, MO, 01/03/08

My family and I just spent a wonderful vacation up north, first stop, a few days in the charming, European mountain town of Eureka Springs, AR then onto Willow Springs, MO where we celebrated the New Year in true yogic style.

The Winter Bliss Retreat was one of the most peaceful ones yet, with angelic kiirtans and deeper meditations day and night. We had the honorable presence of a wonderful Prabhat Samgiita singer, Arunji Jacobson from NY. He is the proprietor of the award winning Long Island Progressive School. Not only did he share blissful Prabhat Samgiitas, bhajans (with his sweet daughter by his side) and rhythmic kiirtans, he humored us with stories of how kiirtan can affect the lives of others in the most unexpected ways...

Our cultural programs, as always, reflected songs, dramas and dances from around the world. A note-worthy Mexican folk dance was lead by my dear sister Amrita with several compadres. Sister Lagima and Dada Pranesh sang a revolutionary Haitian song; and yours truly participated with Prabhat Samgiita; a Brazilian duo with Dada Pranesh; and a social song in Spanish that had my Latino brothers and sisters cheering for more! My little Prashanta, now 6, nicely accompanied me on the tabla, charming all with his 'Zakir Housain-like' expressions.

I left the retreat gaining a deeper sense of sadhana and what it means to honor our spiritual practices. While there, I challenged myself to sit longer and go deeper into the realm of meditation. I am always grateful for the time spent at this magical place.

James Hansen - Climate Change:
The Latest Science, 10/24/07

The Progressive Forum was held at The Wortham Center, home to the opera and ballet. The speaker for this event was James Hansen, one of the leading scientists on global warming who works hand in hand with the former vice president of the United States, Al Gore. The mayor of Houston, Bill White, gave the opening speech, and I was able to meet with them both.

It is a great honor to be invited to sing for this forum, and this was my second event. I chose a Spanish song that calls us to take care of the earth. I also sang the Neohumanist Prabhat Samgiita, Sumukher Pane and kiirtan. The songs were well received, and the organizer commented on the “soulfulness” of the selection. Over 1,200 people attended.

Yoga for Peace Conference, 2007, 10/20/07

The Yoga for Peace Conference was held in the pristine Houston Garden Center Auditorium. Around 400 people attended throughout the day. There were two very good speakers giving talks on ahimsa – non-harming to all living beings; and astaunga yoga – the eight branches of yoga. I sang related Prabhat Samgiitas, bhajans and kiirtans in between speakers, and spoke about the relationship between bhakti and seva. Several people sang along with the bhajans and kiirtans; and purchased CDs.

I shared a table with Janis Blue of “Go Vegan Texas” (KPFT Pacifica Radio), and talked with her about our many projects. She is interested in learning meditation, and doing radio interviews. We had a warm time together, as she is also very passionate about ahimsa.

Toward the end of the day, there were several demonstrations of yoga asanas. Sister Daivi gave a very good demonstration on yoga for children, including imagery and chants in English and Sanskrit. The Hare Krsna Youth performed the grand finale with much sweetness and devotion. Many good contacts were made for future endeavors.

Texas Bioneers Conference, 10/19/07

I performed in the beautiful gardens of the Emerson Unitarian Community Center at the Texas Bioneers Conference in Houston. Around 300 people attended. Before my set, I befriended a group of autistic teenagers from a private school who were curious about the sound equipment. I spent time talking with them, and giving them much affection. As I began to sing, they stood in front of me mesmerized. I felt the positive vibrations of the kiirtans and Prabhat Samgiita affecting them deeply. At the break, a few children put dollar bills in my jar. I was very touched by their gesture. Their sweetness and innocence enhanced the beauty of the colorful garden.

As I sang, I heard in the distance the sweet sound of a clarinet, playing a Middle Eastern tune. I sought out the musician, and invited him to play with me. He blended in most beautifully with the Prabhat Samgiita. I attended his workshop in Middle Eastern drumming, and could see the relation between Indian music. I explained to him the history of music; how it was organized by Lord Shiva and how originally music was created for spiritual development.

Many people commented on the good vibrations created by the music. I was invited to perform for the evening program, but declined due to previous commitments.