About the Retreat - Experiencing Rāgas

Spend the Ugādi weekend at the HUA campus in Orlando, immersed in the sublime world of Indian classical music. As Vasanta Ṛtu, the Vedic spring, unfolds a season of renewal, blossoming, and joyous beginnings, usher in the Hindu New Year through an immersive engagement with the timeless tradition of Śāstrīya Saṅgīta.

This retreat offers a rare confluence of the mellifluous music, vibrant celebration of Holi, and profound explorations of India’s rāga-based musical heritage. Set against the backdrop of nature’s own awakening, it invites participants to attune themselves to the harmonies of both sound and spirit.

About the Music:

In the Hindu dhārmic traditions, music is venerated as a Mokṣa Mārg, a sacred path to liberation, where melody and rhythm become vehicles of transcendence. The art music of India, Śāstrīya Saṅgīta, is an ancient and sophisticated tradition that has flourished for millennia, embodying both artistic excellence and spiritual depth.

Two great streams—Karnatic music, the classical tradition of the South, and Hindustani music, practiced across the rest of the subcontinent—flow from the same perennial source. Though distinct in their style and repertoire, both are founded upon the intricate interplay of rāga (melodic essence) and tāla (cyclical rhythm), embodying a legacy that is at once meditative, evocative, and profound.

Highlight of the Retreat:

As dusk descends upon the retreat, the air will resonate with the profound and meditative strains of music dedicated to Śiva, the eternal Yogi, the cosmic Dancer. Two special evening sessions will transport participants into the luminous world of compositions that extol Śiva’s manifold manifestations.

These sessions will also be open to attendees of the Experiencing Śiva retreat, creating a rare confluence of music, devotion, and sacred philosophy.


Śivastutis, Dīkṣitar, and the Temples of India

Muttusvāmi Dīkṣitar (1775–1835), one of the trinity of Karnatic composers, journeyed across the sacred landscape of Bhārata, composing exquisite kṛtis in homage to the temples he visited. Having spent five years in Kāśī, he infused his compositions with a profound synthesis of melody, poetry, and devotion. From Tiruttani in northern Tamil Nadu to the deep South in Ettayapuram and Tirunelveli, his works serve as lyrical pilgrimages, invoking the spirit of each sacred space.

Dr. Kanniks Kannikeswaran will guide participants through the rich tapestry of these compositions, unraveling their melodic and lyrical intricacies. Attendees will not only experience the depth of Dīkṣitar’s kṛtis but will also have the opportunity to sing select passages, immersing themselves in the living tradition of Śivastutis, including rare Dhrupads from northern India.

  • The Pañcabhūta Sthala Kṛtis of Dīkṣitar – An Experiential Journey

In five ancient temples of southern India, Śiva is venerated as the embodiment of the Pañca-Mahābhūtas—the five great elements. Dīkṣitar’s celebrated compositions in praise of these sthalas capture the essence of Śiva as Ākāśa (Ether) in Chidambaram, Vāyu (Air) in Śrī Kālāhasti, Agni (Fire) in Arunachalam, Jala (Water) in Jambukeśvaram, and Pṛthvī (Earth) in Kāñcipuram.

This immersive 2 to 2.5-hour session will explore the philosophical depth and musical grandeur of these kṛtis, connecting their lyrical meaning to the elemental forces and the sacred geography they evoke. Participants will embark on an experiential journey, where sound, space, and devotion converge, illuminating the sublime relationship between Śiva, the elements, and the eternal flow of music.

Retreat Prerequisites:

An ability to sing or prior training in Karnatic or Hindustani music is NOT a prerequisite of this class. What is needed is a healthy interest in music, and the willingness to explore music.

Retreat Schedule:

Timeline for all days including sessions, activities and mealtimes 

Location: Hindu University of America Campus,  Pine Lake Retreat, 21725 FL-33

Cost: This Retreat is priced at

The retreat fee includes accommodation, nourishing Sattvic vegetarian meals, and access to expert-led workshops, offering a comprehensive and rejuvenating experience.

Shared Chalets:

  • $700 per person
  • $1350 for a family of 2

Shared House: 

  • $500 per person
  • $1800 for a family of 4

Shared Chalets:

  • $800 per person
  • $1500 for a family of 2

Shared House: 

  • $550 per person
  • $1900 for a family of 4
Note: Airfare to and from Orlando is not included.

Key Features:

An Immersive Experience in the World of Rāgas

Explore the depth of rāgas in both classical and contemporary traditions, understanding their significance in Śāstrīya Saṅgīta as well as their presence in popular culture. Engage in both theory and practice, and experience the joy of collective singing.

  • Foundations of Indian Art Music – An introduction to Śāstrīya Saṅgīta and the essence of rāgas.
  • Rāgas in Popular Culture – Discover the influence of rāgas in music beyond the classical realm.
  • Rāgas in Theory and Practice – Karnatic Tradition – Study the structure, aesthetics, and nuances of Karnatic rāgas.
  • Rāgas in Theory and Practice – Hindustani Tradition – Delve into the melodic and rhythmic intricacies of Hindustani rāgas.
  • Rāgas in Devotional Traditions – Experience the spiritual depth of rāgas in temple music and Nāma Saṅkīrtanam.

Rāgas in Choral Expression – Join us in a collective musical experience—sing in harmony with the choir.

Experiencing Rāgas Retreat Timeline:

Thursday 27th March - 6:00 - 9:00 PM - 3 Hours
Timing Duration Itinerary
6:00 PM   Check-in
6:30 - 7:30 PM 1 hour Dinner
7:30 - 8:30 PM 1 hour Networking / Entertainment
9:00 PM   Lights Out
Friday 28th March - 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Timing Duration Itinerary

6:30 - 7:30 AM

1 Hr

Śiva chant / Yoga / Prāṇāyama

7:30 - 9:00 AM

1:30 Hrs

Shower & Breakfast (at 8 AM)

9:15 - 10:45 AM

1:30 Hrs

Session 1

10:45 - 11:00 AM

15 Min

Break / Transition

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

1:30 Hrs

Session 2

12:30 - 1:30 PM

1 Hr

Lunch

1:45 - 2:15 PM

30 Min

Yoga Nidrā

2:15 - 2:30 PM

15 Min

Break / Transition

2:30 - 4 PM

1:30 Hrs

Session 3

4:00 - 4:15 PM

15 Min

Break / Transition

4:15 - 5:30 PM

1:15 Hrs

Session 4

5:30 - 6:30 PM

1 Hr

Nature Walk

6:30 - 7:30 PM

1 Hr

Dinner

7:45 - 9:00 PM

1:15 Hrs

Musical Evening

9:00 – 

  

Lights Out
Saturday 29th March - 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Timing Duration Itinerary

6:30 - 7:30 AM

1 Hr

Śiva chant / Yoga / Prāṇāyama

7:30 - 9:00 AM

1:30 Hrs

Shower & Breakfast (at 8 AM)

9:15 - 10:45 AM

1:30 Hrs

Session 5

10:45 - 11 AM

15 Min

Break / Transition

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

1:30 Hrs

Session 6

12:30  - 1:30 PM

1 Hr

Lunch

1:45 - 2:15 PM

30 Min

Yoga Nidrā

2:15 - 230 PM

15 Min

Break / Transition

2:30 - 4:00 PM

1:30 Hrs

Session 7

4:00 - 5:30 PM

1:30 Hrs

Holi celebration

5:30 - 630 PM

1 Hr

Shower / Traditional Dress

6:30 - 730 PM

1 Hr

Ugadi Dinner

7:45 - 8:15 PM

30 Min

Pañchānga Śravanam

8:15 - 9:30 PM

1:15 Hrs

Musical Evening

9:00 – 

  

Lights Out
Sunday 30th March - 6:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Timing Duration Itinerary

6:30 - 7:30 AM

1 Hr

Śiva chant / Yoga / Prāṇāyama

7:30 - 9:00 AM

1:30 Hrs

Shower & Breakfast (at 8 AM)

9:15 - 10:45 AM

1:30 Hrs

Session 8/ Final Session

10:45 - 11:00 AM

15 Min

Break / Transition

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM

1:30 Hrs

Vedic Chant, Musical Performance & HUA Presentation

12:30 - 130 PM

1 Hr

Lunch & Disperse

About the Faculty

KanniksProfileHighResolution

Dr. Kanniks Kannikeswaran is an internationally acclaimed composer, educator, and scholar, whose pioneering contributions to Indian choral music have redefined the global appreciation of Śāstrīya Saṅgīta. With an extensive body of work spanning compositions, productions, and scholarly explorations, he has collaborated with over 4,000 performers worldwide.

His flagship production, Shānti – A Journey of Peace, weaves the Upaniṣadic vision of Oneness into a grand confluence of choral and orchestral music. His work has been brought to life by legendary artists, including Bombay Jayashri, Kaushiki Chakraborty, Ranjani & Gayatri, Pandit Ajay Chakraborty, the Gundecha Brothers, Lakshmi Shankar, and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

Dr. Kanniks’ award-winning film, Colonial Interlude, sheds light on the little-known genre of Indo-Colonial music through the lens of Muttusvāmi Dīkṣitar’s compositions. The film has been screened at prestigious international venues, offering a rare glimpse into a forgotten musical heritage.

A recipient of numerous accolades, he has been honored with the Distinguished Alumnus Award from IIT Madras, among several other recognitions for his contributions to music and scholarship.

Glimpses from HUA's Past Retreat

IMG_0317
IMG_0316
20240330_183549-1
IMG_0327
IMG_0346
20240331_091531

About Pine Lake Retreat Center

Nestled in Groveland's serene hills, Pine Lake Retreat Center is an idyllic haven for hosting transformative retreats. With state-of-the-art facilities, it provides the perfect backdrop for the Ayurveda, Yoga, Chakra, and Raga Chikitsa Retreat and Learning. The tranquil ambiance fosters holistic well-being, offering a refuge to escape daily pressures. From tailored yoga sessions to immersive Chakra healing, the experienced staff ensures a seamless journey towards rejuvenation. Pine Lake Retreat's commitment to individual growth, combined with its stunning natural surroundings, creates an unparalleled environment for participants to delve deep into self-discovery and spiritual nourishment. Visit Pine Lake Retreat Center for an enriching retreat experience.