Tabla & Rhythm Ashram - July 4th Weekend, 2025

This Chhandayan Tabla Ashram (workshop) will be conducted by Samir Chatterjee. Students of Tabla and other branches of music and dance interested in Indian rhythm may join. Students of all teachers and institutions are welcome. A minimum level of learning experience is required. Students should bring their own instruments, notebooks, a non-intrusive recording device and may bring their water bottle and cushion, if needed. They should wear descent and comfortable dress. They should be in practice for a certain number of hours in preparation for the workshop.  

Lodging includes vegetarian meals cooked at Shanti Mandir Ashram. Please let us know if you have any allergies.
They have double rooms and dormitory rooms. Please let us know of your preferences. 

Workshop Schedule:
July 3rd, Thursday - 9 am to 12 pm, 2 to 5 pm, and 6 to 9 pm,
July 4th, Friday - 9 am to 12 pm, 2 to 5 pm, and 6 to 9 pm,
July 5th, Saturday - 9 am to 12 pm, 2 to 5 pm, music program (recitals) after dinner,
July 6th, Sunday - 9 am to 12 pm, 2 to 5 pm

Chhandayan Tabla Ashram – An Invitation to Deepen Your Musical Journey

Every year, Chhandayan offers a series of immersive workshops designed to enhance the study and practice of Indian music. These workshops, which we call Ashrams, are intensive in nature. They include supervised practice sessions and address many aspects of music that cannot always be explored in regular classroom settings. Open to students of all levels and backgrounds, we also warmly welcome those who are studying under other teachers.

The true value and impact of these Ashrams go far beyond musical training. When you spend extended time in the company of fellow seekers—within an environment dedicated to inner and artistic growth—you inevitably emerge changed. This transformation touches not only your musical abilities, but your entire being.

The longer duration of these gatherings creates a unique space: a shedding of ego, a lightness of being, a shift from intellectual effort to pure consciousness. While this experience is ineffable and deeply personal, the Ashram offers the conditions for such a state to emerge. Many who have joined us since 1995 have encountered this transformation. That is why we choose the word Ashram—not merely Workshop.

This year, we are again opening the Tabla Ashram to all students of music and dance—and their families.

Irrespective of physical ability, we feel blessed to sit and practice for hours without fatigue. Instead of discomfort, we feel a growing swell of energy from an unknown, divine source. It is sheer Grace—and we are grateful to share this path with all of you.

We sincerely hope you will consider making this commitment.