Join the third reunion of this usually far-flung all-star gathering of teachers and practitioners of Indic yogic sciences and spiritual traditions! This inspiring weeklong immersion, an aspiring annual tradition, brings together Dr. Robert Svoboda, Krishna Das, Nina Rao, Chandra Easton, Michele Loew, John Campbell, and Prof. Robert Thurman for a stand-alone hybrid retreat weaving Ayurveda, Bhakti Yoga, Vajrayoga, and tantric Hatha Yoga.

The Mahasiddha Reunion explores the shared roots and living connections between these traditions through study, practice, discussion, and devotion. Participants leave physically energized, deeply inspired, and connected to a growing community dedicated to spiritual evolution and embodied wisdom.

Mornings focus on integrated Vajrayoga practices led by John Campbell, with breath-centered movement and meditative exploration. Nina Rao and Chandra Easton offer teachings on the sacred feminine, Tara and Devi, along with mantra, kirtan, and devotional practice, while Robert Thurman presents the tantric and “Rājayoga” dimensions of Vajrayoga.

Afternoon sessions feature lively teachings and storytelling led by Svoboda, Thurman, and Krishna Das, drawing from the lives and wisdom of great Indian and Indo-Tibetan mahasiddhas. These include Svoboda’s insights from his decades studying Ayurveda and the Aghori tradition, Krishna Das’s devotional presence inspired by Neem Karoli Baba, and Thurman’s Vajrayana teachings rooted in the lineages of his Tibetan gurus, with special emphasis on female siddhas and the many emanations of Tara, supported by Nina Rao and Chandra Easton

Svoboda and Thurman will also lead special Fire Pujas in the central field of Menla's campus, with all students participating. This puja is a powerful way to heal and energize our planetary mandala and celebrate the eventual triumph of the total liberation and enlightenment of all beings (including ourselves!) in a gorgeous setting.

We welcome back the renowned Kirtan artist and devotional singer Nina Rao for a special Weekend Retreat. With her soulful voice and deep devotion, Nina will guide us into an immersion of Bhakti Yoga, designed to open the heart and calm the mind. Explore the power of sacred sound to move beyond the intellect and find inner peace. This retreat combines storytelling, traditional chanting, and hatha yoga to recharge your body, mind and spirit. Whether you are a longtime practitioner or brand new to the path of Bhakti, this weekend you will experience the joy of collective chanting through a heart-centered practice.

Nina Rao, whose devotional chant leadership has inspired practitioners worldwide, will guide us through the repetition of mantras, sharing the tradition of ancient chanting and her own journey of devotion. Nina will guide us through chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa during the mid-day workshop, and lead a soulful kirtan concert with her band on Saturday evening.

Weekend Highlights:

Friday: Evening kirtan with ashram staff and local musician, Ananda.
Saturday: Immersion with Nina Rao – including a midday workshop and evening kirtan concert.
Sunday: Sunrise meditation walk to the Durga Temple for more chanting.

If you would like to register as a day guest for Saturday only, please contact the ashram directly for assistance. The ashram day rate of $65 plus tuition will apply, which includes yoga classes and meals.

Saturday Schedule
1:00 pm Workshop led by Nina Rao chanting the Hanuman Chalisa
7:30pm Satsang* Kirtan concert led Nina Rao and her band

With Krishna Das, Nina Rao, Jai Uttal, Gaura Vani, Visvambhar Sheth, Jaya Lakshmi, and Steve Gorn.

Channel the universal language of love and beauty through the practice of kirtan during this Ecstatic Chant weekend.

Omega's Ecstatic Chant weekend is a chance to bring our voices together with some of the Western world's leading devotional singers, to reunite in community, and to nourish the soul with a rich tradition of musical prayer and meditation.

Known in Sanskrit as kirtan, devotional chanting awakens a longing in the heart for the experience of inner silence, boundless love, and union with the divine. Kirtan emerged from Hindu traditions in India and is today practiced by millions. The call-and-response, rhythmic quality of these unifying chants kindles an exhilarating, joyful mood.

Explore a variety of chants and chanting styles, interspersed with rejuvenating sessions of meditation, yoga, and story sharing.

As one of the most popular events at Omega, Ecstatic Chant has helped open many hearts. Get lost in the music, the power of community, and strengthen your connection to a higher power.