General Information Through our talks, seminars and retreats, we are committed to unfold the teaching of Vedanta in a way that it is directly relevant for every individual living in the modern society, without in any manner compromising on the authenticity and depth of the teaching. Our sessions encourage active participation of all, engage everybody in lively interaction and constructive dialogue.
The participation in our programs does not require one to belong to any religious tradition in particular. The emphasis is here on the universal relevance of the wisdom of Vedanta to life in the twenty first century. We are confident that anybody Indian or Western who is spiritually or philosophically inclined, interested in personal growth, well educated and thinking or simply attracted to Indian culture and wisdom would find our programs extremely enriching.
Our programs are usually conducted in four formats :
Individual Talks last 1 to 1½ hours and include time for questions and answers.
Series of talks on a given subject matter generally take place over a few months. The talks are held several times a week, in the morning and/or the evening. Each session lasts 1½ hours and includes both a talk and an in-depth dialogue.
One day or weekend seminars consist of a full program of talks and dialogues as well as guided meditations, covering in an intensive manner a given subject. Weekend seminars can be held in a residential format.
Intensive long retreats last from 10 days to one month. They are purely residential and are held in India or elsewhere. They include talks, sessions of dialogues and discussions, guided meditations, and sometimes yoga classes.
What people say about our seminars and retreats :
Series of Talks 
‘A group of us in the tiny Island of Fiji have had the good fortune, the Grace of our Dear Lord, to attend a series of talks given by Neema on the Bhagavad Gita. The entire group was simply mesmerized by the eloquence and clarity in which the profound wisdom of the Gita was unfolded to us for two hours each Saturday afternoon. […] We can only pray that we will find Neema back into Fiji in the not too distant future so that we can continue to enjoy the phenomenal series.’Vinod Tappo, Fiji, 'Vision of Bhagavad Gita' talks participant, April-July 2011
‘Neema has an incredible gift of being able to impart the knowledge of the Bhagavad Gita in a practical, intelligent and coherent manner that one can easily relate to. Her command of English Language and the depth and enormity of her knowledge on the Gita renders her series unique and enormously enjoyable. I am sure her series of talks will be simply adored by those who are being exposed to the teachings of the epic work of the Bhagavad Gita for the first time as well as by those aspirants who have already read or are familiar with the work. This is because Neema has a way of bringing this knowledge to her listeners in such a practical, intelligent and inquisitive manner that makes the listeners see the teachings of Gita in a new light. We begin to actually sit up and marvel at the profound wisdom of this sacred work.’Gita Tappoo, Fiji, 'Vision of Bhagavad Gita' talks participant, April-July 2011
‘Thank you for having opened the doors of Vedanta to me. I consider myself as being 'lucky' or maybe a better word would be 'blessed' to have met you. These sessions have been a real discovery as Vedanta has laid down some new foundations and structure on glimpses of truth I had earlier. Your last talks enabled me to make true breakthroughs and enabled me to gain clarity on some issues that I had not been able to resolve with my own reasoning . I was trying to stay as neutral as possible; however, at several times, I found myself filled with enthusiasm by the power and the elegance of this teaching...
One thing is sure, I will not stop this inquiry now, and I am convinced that we will meet again very soon, in Paris or in India.’
Cedric B., France, 'Insights into realities of existence' Paris talks participant, June 2009
‘I approached Surya and Neema's talks with intellectual curiosity as I had been told I would be interested by their examination of knowledge. As I had been led to believe there was a lot which absorbed me on an intellectual level but more unexpectedly I found that many aspects of the talks appealed at a deeper level. I have never really regarded myself as a spiritual person but Surya and Neema have made me reconsider this. Inspired by their clear and reasoned explanations, l find myself regularly reflecting on what was said. I feel that I have been given an insight into an important aspect of my life that I must continue to explore.’Elaine Walker, Bangkok, 'Dimensions of personal development' participant, 2008
‘I always have been a seeker and the talks on the chapter 13 of the Gita have been very fulfilling for me. We generally try to read the Gita on our own and have our own ideas on its content. But the way Neema explained it was with so much clarity that it has become easier for me to understand and retain its vision. The art of looking at things objectively is mind boggling and it helps in day to day living and dealing with other persons at work and at home. Another great change has come in my life as I understood how to interact and to interconnect with others. Many common misconceptions about 'controlling' desires, 'being detached', etc. were also inquired into and negated. It was a great pleasure knowing Neema and it is a comfort being with Surya and Neema, discussing various things, as both are so warm and patient listeners and always eager to share knowledge. May God always be with them’Pramode Jain, Bangkok, 'Chapter 13 of the Gita' Bangkok talks participant, March-May 2009
‘Thank you very much for the sessions - the whole experience was simultaneously relaxed, fun, and yet profound.I found the teaching very liberating, comforting and entrusting me with greater responsibility, as it unfolds my connection with the universe. Comforting, as I am part of a larger design, linked to everything; liberating because the design exists, and therefore I am not overwhelmed by events outside my sphere of influence, and can concentrate on doing what is in my domain; and responsibility because the actions of each one influence the overall functioning of the design.
Another thing I really liked was that the sessions opened up and let us think about, and question, aspects of life and living that we often do not question, By questioning these, our awareness as well as freedom and responsibility have all increased dramatically.
Finally, in terms of methodology, etc. I really loved the way the course was conducted - the size of the group, the ambience, the link to real-life experiences. We also spent some time and several examples comparing and reinforcing the Gita teaching with Western scientific theory and findings.’
Geetha and Arun Sethi, Bangkok, 'The vision of the Gita' participant, 2008
‘Thank you so much for conducting the enlightening Gita sessions! It was an invaluable life experience for us. It made us see things from a totally different perspective and at the same time it gave a sense of beauty and purpose to our existence. We loved the wisdom, purity and simplicity of the teaching. We appreciate the dedication and professionalism with which you conducted the classes. Your method of teaching made the sessions alive and interesting and kept us riveted. After each class, as you may have gauged, we were constantly looking forward to the next one!We are eagerly anticipating further sessions and discourses. Both of you are so warm and welcoming. You are incredible in your willingness to share your knowledge and spread the message of the all encompassing Isvara in our lives. Once again thank you so much!’
Maya and Gopi, Bangkok, 'The vision of the Gita' participant, 2008
‘'Well, listening to Neema meant, as she put it, a paradigm shift... Obviously, we need to make a choice between continuing in our old ways or try to grasp and navigate our lives through the new thoughts and ideas that have occurred...I appreciated Neema's approach, which was more of sharing than laying down precepts. It was very refreshing to see this attitude from a person who has studied the Upanishads and learnt sanskrit. There was humility and joy as she spoke to us about the teaching of Upanishads.' ’
Sri Nidhi, Bangkok, ‘The vision of Vedanta’ participant, 2008
Intensive Retreats
‘I want to thank you because this retreat has been very important for me. I have particularly benefited from the clarity with which Neema is able to unfold the vision of Vedanta which is so subtle in nature. Her method of exposition helps us not to get into any kind of pitfalls or misinterpretations. There is a lot of grace required to find someone who has the vision so clearly understood.Throughout the retreat, they emphasized that the important part of human growth is to bring understanding of one's relationship to the total (Isvara) in form of the order. As a result, one big thing that has happened is that I feel that now when I come back I will really be able to bring this teaching at work in my daily life. Before this retreat, I used to attend classes by some other teachers, but I did not understand how this teaching can be relevant in my daily life. This new understanding will make a big difference. And I am very grateful to Neema and Surya for that.’
Millie Mitra, Bangalore, Anaikatti Intensive participant, January 2010
‘Neema requested me to teach Yoga during French and English retreats as I am a Yoga therapist at Stanford University Hospital in California. I had never studied Vedanta with a teacher before, but I used to read some articles on philosophy and had a lot of difficulties with the idea of a creator. I listened to the Vedanta classes with an open mind and I thoroughly enjoyed them. This is the opening of a new path and I am very interested to build more bridges between Yoga and Vedanta. As a Yoga teacher, I was so amazed to see the participants' enthusiasm and interest in learning Yoga, and interest in incorporating Yoga practices in their life style. As a teacher, you just then give everything. I loved the ashram very much, the south Indian food, the whole atmosphere and people. Thank you very much. I am very happy that we could be together for this retreat.’
Matra Raj, Palo Alto, California, Anaikatti Intensive participant, January 2010
‘Through a series of serendipitous events, we had the very good fortune of attending Surya and Neema's September 2009 Rishikesh Vedanta retreat. After spending more than six months seeking spiritual knowledge in India without much satisfaction, this retreat was like a shower of divine grace which left us feeling enriched, energized and hungry for more learning and knowledge. Surya and Neema are extraordinary teachers and spiritual guides that present complex intellectual concepts in a coherent, open, and welcoming framework. Every single day of this retreat was a completely fulfilling and unique experience unto itself with guided meditations, yoga and daily baths in the Ganga, complementing the core Vedanta lectures. Our biggest complaint was that there was never enough time in the day to learn from and be with our teachers and the rest of the retreat group. More than anything else, this retreat confirmed our inherent belief that the knowledge contained within traditional Indian philosophy is life altering in a highly meaningful and fulfilling way, if one is blessed enough to find the right teachers. Our outlook on life was deeply enhanced as a result of this experience and we are more encouraged than ever before to continue on our path for more knowledge .’
David Zimmer & Sharon Azogue, USA, Rishikesh Intensive participant, September 2009
‘We are so grateful for the warmth and kindness in which Surya and Neema guided us into the studies and understanding of Vedanta. We had no idea that in such a short time, we could have drowned so deeply into this wonderful, mysterious and life changing ocean of knowledge.Neema and Surya, besides being incredibly consistent in everything they teach, also have a delightful compassion when they are transmitting this knowledge. We, as persons and psychologists, really do not know any better way than the way they impart this profound teaching.’
Claudia Massa Regina & Edmundo Barbosa, Brazil, Anaikatti Intensive participant, Jan 2009
‘I am very grateful to Surya and Neema for giving us this teaching. I can say with confidence that my life can be divided into 'before' and 'after' this retreat, as it has enabled me to change my outlook towards life completely. The vision of the Upanishads was unfolded with mastery with the help of an evolved methodology of teaching. I consider every human being should benefit from this teaching since it is directly relevant to our lives and fundamentally changes the way we live.The natural environment in which the retreat took place was splendid and the overall atmosphere was relaxed, friendly, joyful with a group which consisted of beautiful persons. Thank you very much !! I am looking forward to taking another retreat with you both.’
Maria Elena Vietto, Argentina, Anaikatti Intensive participant, Jan 2009
‘Surya and Neema were remarkable in their ease to transmit knowledge within the framework of a traditional methodology of teaching. Their enthusiasm and the passion to share knowledge were contagious and inspiring to all of us. The sessions were open to dialogues. Meditation was conducted with clarity and simplicity. Besides, the classroom teaching, human values they exhibited throughout the retreat were remarkable.The group of participants in the retreat was an example of unity in diversity as there were people from Brazil, Argentina, South and North India, Reunion Island. This made it into a real group where the dynamic of the whole group was greater than the sum of individuals.
In conclusion, it was an unforgettable retreat and even more, a decisive step in discovering the order of Isvara, after all the years I had previously spent on this journey. Thank you Neema and Surya for sharing this wonderful knowledge.’
Stella Thomas & Roberto Toranzo, Argentina, Anaikatti Intensive participant, Jan 2009
'I am not sure that any form of gratitude is adequate to show how much I have appreciated these last 10 days. I only hope that my understanding of this knowledge will allow me to make better choices as a contributor to this universe. Your patience, understanding and willingness to teach is incredible and inspiring. Though I do not know where I am going in this life, I’ve developed a greater trust that I will find a direction and grow to better recognize my part in this world. That you have made me aware of so many opportunities is invaluable to me and I can’t take it for granted. Countless (though not limitless) thanks.' Kaithlynn Ketia, USA, Rishikesh Intensive participant, Sept 2008
‘The clarity with which the teaching about one's self is conveyed is remarkable and at the same time fun. I have enjoyed the teachings and believe I have understood a great deal of this knowledge, with the understanding that there is so much more to grasp... I would certainly love to do it again and again! Seeing oneself in the proper light as a limitless being, why go for the limited! Thanks for so much patience and love.’ Mario Corella, Mexico, Rishikesh Intensive participant, Sept 2008
‘Thank you both very much for a wonderful experience in Rishikesh! Your teachings have really helped to clarify some points and consolidate others. What I notice the most is my understanding of Isvara has really evolved, for which I am so grateful. I very much look forward to seeing you both in the near future as I find you both very warm, and loving people.’
Clare Reynolds, Scotland, Rishikesh Intensive participant, Sept 2008
‘The ashram of Swami Dayananda is a very conducive place for exchanges and inquiry. People were very warm (and the cook outstanding), I keep excellent memories of the overall atmosphere of the place. The diversity of the backgrounds of participants gave rise to a great sharing of experiences. I thank you both infinitely for the teaching you gave me. I consider myself as blessed to have been able to meet you this year. My infinite thanks for your contribution to the world and you ability to keep alive the most ancient spiritual tradition with so much joy, passion and commitment.’ D.B, Paris, Rishikesh Intensive participant, Sept 2008
‘Vedanta was totally unknown to me, but this retreat has enabled me to comprehend step by step all the dimensions of the teaching and to integrate it into my daily life. This teaching invites one to understand one's nature, think about the meaning of our actions and our contribution to the world....Neema is a living example of clarity of mind...and she really teaches with love, understanding, and conviction. The commitment of the teachers and their clarity made this retreat a life enriching experiences. Thank you Neema for your integrity, your open mind, and the love you spread around you.’
E.B, Paris, Rishikesh Intensive participant, Sept 2008
‘I attended their introductory Vedanta course in Anaikatti... It was a ten day capsule in the true Gurukulam style where the guru and the student are together from morning to night. The sessions were interspersed with yoga, meditation, walks and Q&A. The way the teachings of the Vedas were unfolded to us was brilliant. It was systematic, logical and came from a deep knowledge of the texts. Besides knowing the texts backwards, Surya and Neema are living examples of the Vedantic way of life.’
Neeru Nanda, Mumbai, Intensive retreat participant in South India, Jan 2008
‘...About teaching and methodology: we inquired into the question of the real nature of ourselves, without dogma or belief...Step by step, through the study of ancient texts, we examined the problems one by one. « Here and now», with objectivity and critical analysis... It was a unique experience, and I learned a lot.What will stay with me is the patience with which you welcomed all questions. It was truly indispensable and from this standpoint, outstanding in comparison to all seminars and various trainings I had attended to. Each and every student has been listened to, no question was avoided, you always made sure that everybody had a clear understanding of the teaching.’
D.B, Paris, Anaikatti Intensive participant, Jan 2008
Individual Talks & Conferences
" I was somewhat familiar of the different subjects discussed in the conference. When we move away from the dogmatic part of the different religions, we find everywhere the ideas of impermanence, interdependence, and of one's limitless nature.
What struck me in this conference was the clarity with which Surya explained the order of karma. It was like a flash of light, a moment of clear certainty, a brief instant of 'vacuity'. This definitely opens for me new domains to reflect upon and frees me from some limitations in action. Thank you."
What struck me in this conference was the clarity with which Surya explained the order of karma. It was like a flash of light, a moment of clear certainty, a brief instant of 'vacuity'. This definitely opens for me new domains to reflect upon and frees me from some limitations in action. Thank you."
Liliane M, 'Knowledge & freedom', Conferences on Non Duality, Reunion Island, August 2011
