For the last four years, I have had the privilege of teaching a worldwide group of dedicated Śiva devotees the magnificent prayer known as Rudram. This prayer, a jewel from the Kṛṣṇa Yajur Veda, is both a challenge and a blessing—a journey that transforms all who approach it with dedication and devotion.
As we prepare for the 5th cohort of this course, starting on Śivarātrī (26 February 2025), I invite eligible* students to consider embarking on this sacred journey. Rudram is not merely a chant but an intimate pathway to connect with Śiva, the Lord of transformation, whose presence permeates every aspect of life. Here are some of the many reasons why this practice is profoundly transformative:
- An Intimate Connection with Śiva
Rudram is unlike any other prayer. It reshapes conventional notions of divinity, revealing Śiva’s essence in the mundane and the extraordinary alike. Through this chant, we are reminded that Śiva’s presence can be found in every aspect of existence, guiding us to a deeper understanding of reality.
- A Call to Face Reality
This sacred text encourages us to embrace the universe as it unfolds, teaching us acceptance without passivity. It empowers us to acknowledge life’s realities while offering the strength and wisdom to shape the direction of our lives.
- A Devotee’s Discipline
Mastering Rudram requires focus, perseverance, and devotion. It is a path that demands commitment, yet rewards you with spiritual growth and an enhanced connection to the divine.
- A Pathway to Karmic Healing
Known for its transformative power, Rudram is revered as a potent tool for resolving karmic obligations. The vibrations of this prayer are said to help harmonise the mind, body, and soul, providing clarity and peace.
- A Unique Vocabulary and Vision
Rudram introduces us to an extraordinary vocabulary and vision of the divine. With over 300 sacred names of Śiva, each followed by the salutation namaḥ, this chant expands our understanding of divinity. It even includes the seed mantra oṃ namaḥ śivāya, one of the most powerful and beloved mantras in the Vedic tradition.
The 40-Day Sādhana: A Path of Dedication
This year, I am offering a 40-day sādhana leading up to Śivarātrī open exclusively to our Rudram community—those who have completed the study of Namakam and Camakam. This practice begins on Makara Śankrānti (14 January 2025) and concludes on 22 February 2025. During these 40 days, we will recite Namakam and Camakam daily, immersing ourselves in the sacred vibrations of Rudram.
The objective of daily practice over 40 days is to strengthen mental clarity and amplifies the transformative power of Rudram through sādhana.
Those who complete the Rudram course and join the sādhana will also become part of our growing “Rudram community.” This group meets monthly on Śivarātri to chant together, keeping the practice vibrant and alive. I hope to offer many more practice opportunities to this community including a retreat or in-person practice opportunity.
Learning Rudram is a transformative process that will stay with you for a lifetime, shaping your perspective, enhancing your discipline, and deepening your devotion.
*Eligibility – Foundation course, 2 sūktam-s at least, understanding of chanting rules – all studied with Shantala. We are unable to take students who have not met this eligibility.
For more details about the course and to join the 2025 cohort, click HERE >>.
Listen to Shantala recite Rudram:
I’m so grateful to all the students who have studied Rudram with me and that we are able to have this community and engage in practice together!