Annapūrṇā stotram – a workshop
Saturday April 15
10am NY | 4pm Brussels | 7.30pm India
2 hours workshop

Introduction:

This well known hymn composed by Śaṅkarācārya honours our source of food, our lifeline, our most basic requirement to live this embodied life. In this workshop we will understand “anna” or food, as described in ancient texts and learn to chant the 12 verses of this beautiful hymn.

The taittirīya upaniṣad declares “tasmat sarvauṣadham ucyate” – therefore, (food) is called the medicine for all. This text also unfolds this statement and helps us reconnect with food as a spiritual practice that leads eventually to knowledge of the Self. A complicated and advanced study in Vedānta, a prayerful access to the same knowledge is through the devotional worship of Annapūrṇā, the goddess who fulfils our need for food as medicine.​
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​​​Who is goddess Annapūrṇā? What are some beautiful stories from the Purāṇa hidden in this hymn? What makes the donation (dāna) of food (anna) so important? I look forward to sharing!Understand its significance is said to create a sense of humility in the devotee.

Course objectives:

At the end of this weekend workshop, you will:

• Learn the hymn Annapūrṇā stotram – following chandas (meter) and honouring Sanskrit pronunciation.
• Understand the significance of this hymn.
• Learn the significance of Anna or food, as described in ancient texts.

Workshop level:

All levels – some background in Sanskrit chanting will be useful, but beginners are most welcome! This is not Veda chanting, therefore more accessible to all levels.

Workshop fee:

€39 until 21 March, €49 from 22 March : including live workshop + replay (permanent access) + workbook + audio lessons for learning.
(For students facing financial constraints, please write to me for a donation based participation)

Course platform & resources:

• Workshop will be taught on Zoom. If the time/schedule of this class is not suitable, replay of the entire workshop will be made available.
• Workbook is provided with text – in English transliteration & Devanāgari along with meaning.
• All students will receive lifetime access to a self-paced course with workshop recording & additional learning resources.

An excerpt of Shantala chanting: