soundarya lahari classes

soundarya lahari, meaning “Waves of Beauty,” is a revered sanskrt literary work attributed to ādi śankarācārya, the great philosopher and theologian who consolidated the doctrine of advaita vedānta in the 8th century. This composition is not just a poetic description of the physical beauty of the devī śakti (Universal Mother), but also a profound work of tantric philosophy and spiritual insight.

The 100 ślokās are divided into two parts:
ślokās 1 to 41 – ānanda lahari (Waves of Bliss)
ślokās 42 to 100 – soundarya lahari (Waves of Beauty)

Each śloka is set to a different rāga – 100 ślokās in 100 rāgās

Although the ślokās are taught in rāgās, no prior musical knowledge is necessary to learn these ślokās. Those who have musical background can take advantage of their musical knowledge. Those who don’t have experience in classical music, this is a great way to get introduced to it through the 100 rāgās you’ll learn.

Class structure:
The classes will be conducted in person. The classes will be at a slow pace so that each participant gets to repeat after the teacher and gets the correct pronunciation and intonation for each śloka. Typically, one to two new ślokās will be taught during each class. Participants are encouraged to record each class session so that they can use the recording to practice the ślokās during the week. As classes progress, earlier ślokās will be reviewed in batches to ensure that students accurately imbibe the rāgās and correct pronunciation.

Class timing: 11 a.m. to noon on Sundays
Register by clicking on this link or by scanning this QR Code

Although the classes are free, a small donation of $21 to the temple is suggested for each class. This small donation will help the temple to continue facilitating such activities.