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RETREAT
INDIA

IN

BANGALORE

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Dance. Yoga. Breath.

Join us for a transformative 7-day, 6-night retreat in Mysore from December 27, 2025 to January 2, 2026, dedicated to the sacred classical dance of India and the practice of yoga.
Immerse yourself for a full week in traditional art, spiritual practice, and cultural discovery.

We begin in Mysuru, renowned for its rich heritage, vibrant culture, and serene beauty, where you will stay in a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of the Gokulam neighborhood. The journey then continues with an optional extension in Bangalore from January 2 to 4, offering a deeper exploration of Indian art, culture, and spiritual traditions.

Experience daily yoga and dance classes, meditation, cultural excursions, and moments of reflection in the very heart of India’s sacred legacy.

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MYSORE

27 DIC 2025 to 2 JAN 2026

BANGALORE

2 to 4 JAN 2026

POST RETREAT

Begin your journey in Mysore.
Enjoy this retreat where the rhythm of the sacred comes alive.
Dive into the rich world of Indian dance and yoga with Shamti and local masters, and experience a unique, holistic approach to Bharatanatyam. Immerse yourself in dance, art, and yoga alongside like-minded artists in an inspiring and nurturing environment.

This classical Indian dance and yoga retreat welcomes both sincere beginners and advanced students, offering new techniques, fresh insights, and the chance to strengthen their foundation in classical Indian dance. Through daily yoga, in-depth exploration of Bharatanatyam, peaceful moments in nature, and engaging discussions on dance theory and aesthetics, participants will feel supported and inspired to reach new heights in their practice.

After Mysore, you may choose to continue with the optional extension in Bangalore, where the retreat deepens further with advanced study, practice, and inspiration through dance.

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MYSORE RETREAT

27 DIC 2025 to 2 JAN 2026

6 nights and 7 days Accommodation in Fantatic Villa

All meals include (Vegetarian Menu)

Full Course and Excurtions

This retreat is offered in English and Spanish

CURRICULUM

Each day begins with Hatha Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga classes, designed to reconnect with the traditional practice of India and prepare the body, mind, and spirit. Afterwards, we move to the morning dance sessions in our shala, just a three-minute walk from the villa, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful stroll through the charming streets of Gokulam in Mysore.

Dance classes include a full physical conditioning program to build strength and stamina, as well as the practice of traditional and new techniques to expand your Bharatanatyam vocabulary. We will also explore other classical and folk dances of India, such as Kathak and Garba.

In the afternoons and evenings, activities alternate between study sessions with theoretical classes and full-day excursions to temples and iconic sites in the region, combining learning, culture, and immersive experiences.

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BHARATANATYAM

Bharatanatyam is one of the nine classical dance forms of India, originating from the state of Tamil Nadu. Rooted in the sacred dance traditions of the devadasis in temples, it gradually evolved into a stage art form, especially in post-independence India.

With more than 14 years of experience as a researcher, performer, dedicated student, and teacher of both Bharatanatyam and Yoga, Shamti has established herself as a guide in this field. When viewed through the lens of Yoga, Bharatanatyam extends esoteric practices and deepens the meditative journey of the practitioner.

 

The technique of Bharatanatyam is complex and rigorous: it combines fast and rhythmic footwork, fluid torso movements, expressive contrasts in the eyes, and the simultaneous use of mudras (hand gestures). The traditional curriculum unfolds over many years of training within the Guru-Shishya-Parampara, the ancient master-disciple tradition.

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KATHAK

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HATHA
YOGA

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ASHTANGA
YOGA

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PNEUMA
BREATHWORK

WELCOME TO ALL LEVELS 

While we welcome everyone to join our classes, please note that Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form which, much like yoga, requires a certain level of physical fitness and stamina.
Our classes are structured to accommodate all levels.

For complete beginners, we optionally recommend starting with the online class series. This will help you become familiar with the basic postures and feel more prepared before beginning the training in India.

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EXCURSIONS

During the retreat, we’ll visit iconic sites such as Chamundi Hill (dedicated to Durga), Somanathapura Temple, Hoysaleswara Temple, and the majestic Mysore Palace. We’ll also welcome the New Year together, celebrating in community with joy and intention.

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Chamundi Hill is one of Mysuru’s most sacred sites, home to the Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to the fierce goddess Durga in her form as Chamundi. Climbing the 1,008 steps to the top is both a physical and spiritual journey, offering panoramic views of the city and a sense of inner ascent. The temple holds deep significance in local mythology, where the goddess is said to have defeated the demon Mahishasura—symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and the awakening of inner power.

Chamundi Hill

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is a jewel of Hoysala architecture, built in the 13th century. This temple is not just a structure—it's a living sculpture. The walls are adorned with intricate carvings of deities, dancers, animals, and epic tales, each detail pulsating with devotion and symbolic meaning. The energy of this space is deeply meditative, as if the stones themselves were whispering mantras. It's often described as a “Natya Mandala” — a temple where dance, myth, and sacred geometry merge into one.

Somanathapura Temple

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built in the 12th century and dedicated to Shiva, is not only an architectural masterpiece but also an ancient cultural center where devotion and the arts came together. Like many temples of South India, it was closely linked to the tradition of the devadasis—women consecrated to the deity who preserved and transmitted, through music and dance, the sacred stories and spirit of the temple. Its intricately carved stone sculptures, depicting episodes from the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and scenes of daily life, reflect this profound connection between the divine, artistic expression, and spiritual life, making the temple a place where devotional dance flourished as both offering and contemplation.

 

Hoysaleswara Temple

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Mysuru Palace, a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, was the royal residence of the Wodeyar dynasty in Karnataka. Known for its intricate carvings, grand halls, and beautiful gardens, the palace is a cultural landmark that comes alive especially during the Dasara festival when it is brilliantly illuminated. Visiting Mysuru Palace offers a unique glimpse into the region’s royal history and rich heritage.

Mysore Palace

Velas Diwali

We will come together to joyfully celebrate the New Year, honored to share this beautiful experience in India. It will be a special moment to plant new intentions, accompanied by traditional meals and a sacred ritual (pooja) to mark the start of this new cycle with renewed energy.

New Year Celebration

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Gokulam is a serene and leafy neighborhood in Mysuru, known for its strong spiritual and artistic atmosphere. As a global hub for yoga—especially Ashtanga—it attracts seekers from around the world who come to study, reflect, and connect with Indian traditions. With its quiet streets, welcoming cafés, yoga schools, and nearby temples, Gokulam offers the perfect environment for a retreat grounded in mindfulness, creativity, and inner transformation.

Gokulam

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Mysuru Palace, a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, was the royal residence of the Wodeyar dynasty in Karnataka. Known for its intricate carvings, grand halls, and beautiful gardens, the palace is a cultural landmark that comes alive especially during the Dasara festival when it is brilliantly illuminated. Visiting Mysuru Palace offers a unique glimpse into the region’s royal history and rich heritage.

Mysore Palace

Velas Diwali

We will come together to joyfully celebrate the New Year, honored to share this beautiful experience in India. It will be a special moment to plant new intentions, accompanied by traditional meals and a sacred ritual (pooja) to mark the start of this new cycle with renewed energy.

New Year Celebration

Where-to-stay-in-mysore-india-e1745875949615.jpeg.webp

Gokulam is a serene and leafy neighborhood in Mysuru, known for its strong spiritual and artistic atmosphere. As a global hub for yoga—especially Ashtanga—it attracts seekers from around the world who come to study, reflect, and connect with Indian traditions. With its quiet streets, welcoming cafés, yoga schools, and nearby temples, Gokulam offers the perfect environment for a retreat grounded in mindfulness, creativity, and inner transformation.

Gokulam

ACCOMODATION

 

Stay in a beautiful Villa Vani in Gokulam, just a 5-minute walk from our Shala. Enjoy comfortable spaces to relax, with homemade breakfasts, lunches, and dinners provided. The surrounding area offers charming shops, cafés, and local spots to explore.

$1,780 USD

PER PERSON

PRICE

SHARED ROOM

For 2 People – Friends or Family

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This spacious room features a Queen-size bed to be shared by two people. It’s ideal for close friends or family members who are comfortable sharing a bed. The room is beautifully designed and includes a shared bathroom for your convenience.

$1,780 USD

    • Bath towel, bedding, and blankets

    • Wi-Fi

    • Access to the kitchen for preparing your teas

    • Spacious living room and dining area

    • Garden and open-air relaxation space

    🔔 Limited spots available!

    • All classes and workshops

    • Cultural excursions

    • Shared accommodation at Villa Vani

    • Vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

    • Transportation for excursions

  • Transportation from Bangalore Airport to Mysuru is not included, but we will gladly assist you in arranging it.

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PROGRAM SCHEDULE


December 27, 2025 – January 2, 2026

Mysuru, India

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Day 1: 

December 27

14:00 - 16:00: Check-in

16:00 - 17:00: Registration

17:00 - 18:00: Introduction

18:00 - 19:00: Pooja (Ceremony)

19:00 - 20:30: Dinner

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 Days 2 to 6:

December 28, 29, 30, and 31 & January 1

06:30 - 07:45: Hatha / Ashtanga Yoga 

08:00 - 09:00: Breakfast

09:00 - 10:00: Break

10:00 - 11:30: Bharatanatyam

12:00 - 13:00: Theoretical Class / Excursions

13:00 - 14:00: Lunch

14:00 - 16:00: Break

16:00 - 17:30: Kathak / Pneuma Breathwork

17:30 - 18:30: Meditation and Journal

18:30 - 19:30: Calm

19:30 - 20:30: Dinner

Day 7:

January 2

  • 06:00 - 07:05: Hatha / Ashtanga Yoga 

  • 07:30 - 08:30: Breakfast

  • 8:30 - Check-out and departure from Villa

  • 11:30 - Arrival in Bangalore

 

It’s time to say goodbye. Our transport will take participants either to the airport or, for those joining the post-retreat extension, onward to Bangalore for the next part of the journey.

POST-RETREAT IN BANGALORE

Our retreat in Mysuru concludes on January 2rd at 9:00 am, but we invite you to continue the journey with an optional extension from January 2nd to 4th (3 days and 2 nights) in Bangalore, focused on art, exploration, and rest.

During this enriching experience, you'll have the opportunity to attend a live Bharatanatyam dance performance and take part in an exclusive class at the Academy of Bharatanatyam, guided by the renowned teacher Guru Gayathri Keshavan. We'll be staying at the elegant ITC Gardenia hotel, where you'll enjoy included breakfasts and have time to explore the cultural richness of the city—or simply unwind in a refined and comfortable setting.

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OPTIONAL EXTENSION INCLUDING

3 days and 2 nights in shared accommodation with one person at
the 5-star ITC Gardenia Hotel

2 breakfast included

Entry to a live Bharatanatyam Recital at a theatre in Bangalore

Masterclass at the Academy of Bharatanatyam with Guru Gayathri Keshavan

Private transportation from Mysuru to ITC Gardenia in Bangalore is included.

Included in your post-retreat package for just

+$380 
(American Dollar)

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PROGRAM SCHEDULE

Bangalore, India
January 2 - 4, 2026

Day 7:

January 2

10:00 - 12:00: Check-in hotel ITC Gardenia

13:00 - 15:00: Lunch / Rest
15:00: Transportation to the Academy
16:00 - 17:30: MasterClass Guru Grayathri K.
17:30: Comeback Hotel
 

Exploration / Rest

- UB City (Shopping Area) 

- Mg Road (Shopping Area)

- Indira Nagar (Shopping Area)

- Bangalore Palce (Closed 5:30 pm)
 

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 Day 8:

January 3

This day can be taken at your own pace: relax and explore the city, or join us for a special behind-the-scenes experience, where you’ll get a glimpse of the rehearsals for the upcoming performance.
 

  • 06:00 – 07:00: Breakfast

  • 07:00 – 08:00: Transportation to the Academy (optional)

  • 10:00 – 13:00: Behind the Scenes with Shamti (optional)

  • 13:00 – 14:00: Return to hotel

  • 14:00 – 15:00: Lunch

  • 16:00 – 18:00: Rest / Free time to explore

  • 18:00 – 19:00: Visit to Shiva Temple

  • 19:00 – 20:00: Return to hotel


*We recommend packing your bag in advance so that tomorrow flows more smoothly and you can enjoy the closing moments with ease.

 Day 9:

January 4

06:00 - 07:00: Breakfast

07:00 - 08:00: Dress up in Indian clothing

08:00 - 9:00: Transportation to the theater

9:00 - 11:00: Behind the Scenes

11:00 - 12:30: Bharatanatyam Performance

12:30 - 14:00: Lunch Time

14:00 - 16:00: Return to the hotel and departure

 


 

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ACCOMODATION
ITC GARDENIA

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THIS PACKAGE DOES NOT COVER

 - Flights

- Snacks and meals out at Restaurants or cafes (see your course schedule for details)

- Your own personal rental car or taxis

- Extra excursions, trips to town or private taxis

- Personal expenses

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STEPS FOR REGISTRATION

  1. Choose your preferred accommodation for the Mysuru retreat.

  2. Fill out the registration form.

  3. Make the first payment to secure your spot.

  4. If you wish to join the post-retreat in Bangalore, you’ll need to make an additional reservation.

  5. The following payments are scheduled as follows:

    1. Second payment in October

    2. Third payment at the beginning of December

2 STEP
Reservation Payment

Please make your first payment to reserve your spot.

Send your proof of payment to 

pneumadance@pneumainstitute.org
 and complete the registration form. A member of our team will contact you for further details and support.

1 STEP
Choose your accodation

1. Please select your preferred accommodation option for the retreat in Mysuru.

Return to Accommodation.

2. Complete the registration form

3. Any questions or assistance, please contact our coordinator Supriya:
pneumadance@pneumainstitute.org

3 STEP
Send the receipt and complete the form

*For those applying for a scholarship, please complete the form.

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