Tantra: Freedom, Embodiment, and Transformation

With Sravana Borkataky-Varma and Keith Cantú

August 8 - 13, 2025

Book now and get 10% off accommodation prices. Offer valid until May 9, 2025.

Date and Time Details:
Program begins: August 8, 2025
Program ends: August 13, 2025
Click here to view a sample program schedule.

Location: Hollyhock Cortes Island

Address: Cortes Island, Strathcona, BC, Canada

Package Pricing: Click Register Now to view availability of accommodations and all-inclusive pricing. For more information on accommodation types, click here.

Scholarships : Hollyhock programs are enriched by welcoming a multitude of voices and experiences that reflect global plurality. The Hollyhock scholarship program is one of the key strategies we employ to expand program access to underrepresented and marginalized communities. Click here to learn more and apply.

Terms & Conditions: For information on cancellation policies, health and safety, and to read Hollyhock’s Community Policy on Respectful Conduct, click here.

  • Private Cabin Oceanfront – CAD $4,355.00
  • Single w/ensuite Oceanfront – CAD $3,355.00
  • Single w/ensuite – CAD $3,155.00
  • Single w/shared bathroom – CAD $2,730.00
  • Couple w/ensuite Oceanfront – CAD $5,295.00
  • Couple w/ensuite – CAD $4,900.00
  • Couple w/shared bathroom – CAD $4,505.00
  • Twin w/ensuite oceanfront – CAD $2,650.00
  • Twin w/ensuite – CAD $2,450.00
  • Twin w/shared bathroom – CAD $2,250.00
  • Three-share w/shared bathroom – CAD $2,045.00
  • Women Dorm – CAD $1,800.00
  • Male Dorm – CAD $1,800.00
  • Mixed Dorm – CAD $1,800.00
  • Tent Site Single – CAD $1,775.00
  • Tent Site Couple – CAD $3,300.00
  • Commuter – CAD $1,600.00
  • All Packages Include CAD $1,475.00 Tuition and meals

Have you ever dived into the ocean of Tantra? Have you experienced the weaving of the world?

Join scholar-practitioners Sravana Borkataky-Varma and Keith Edward Cantú as we explore Tantric practices and perspectives on topics like freedom from external interference and self-sovereignty (Sanskrit svādhikāra), the link between physical and so-called “subtle bodies,” and the creation of physical mandalas (maṇḍala) or circles and other shapes that potentially can transform our internal and external environments.

Dare to engage the latest research and ethnographic “participant observation,” and to challenge and reframe your conventional understanding of what Tantra was, is, and can be. Immerse yourself with authentic South Asian folk musical performances, songs, and guided meditations for a creative, visceral experience for the mind, body, and heart. Allow our collective and individual practices to illuminate Tantra’s connections, by means of a wide variety of vibrant artistic and meditative practices and in an eye-opening and unforgettable way.

We invite both couples and individuals to join us in this workshop that blends meditation, art, and music with a holistic inquiry into Tantra’s power and therapeutic potential to unlock a happier and more fulfilling life. Bring an open mind as we explore deep questions about our bodies and minds in a safe space and nurturing environment.

Program Highlights

  • Develop an embodied understanding of Tantra
  • Creatively explore your divine potential
  • Enjoy the benefit of overcoming negative projections and self-generated illusions
  • Learn practical modes of meditation, including internal visualization and externalization through mandalas

Noteworthy

  • Both individuals and couples are welcome to join.
  • This workshop is NOT about “Tantric Sex” or experiencing enhanced sexual pleasures, although many discussions will address gender identity and sexuality.

Testimonials

“Thank you – I reach out to you in my meditations and yoga – finding both mind and body fully restored as I come to terms with amending my busy professional life to allow for whatever is yet trying to unfold.” – Elizabeth S.

“I felt Kamakhya Devi fierceness and Shiridi Sai Baba’s compassion in the mystical energy portal created by both of you … One of my best meditation experiences 🙇🏻” – Harish R.

Daily Schedule

A detailed schedule will be emailed to you about 30 days prior to your program. Click here to view a sample program schedule.

 

About the Presenters

Sravana Borkataky-Varma

Sravana Borkataky-Varma is an expert in South Asian religions, with a focus on Hindu traditions. Her research delves into Indian religions, exploring esoteric rituals, gender themes, and bodily concepts, particularly within the Hindu Śākta Tantra traditions (commonly known as Goddess Tantra). She characterizes her research approach as AND, which integrates social anthropology—as viewed externally—with aspects […]

Learn more about Sravana Borkataky-Varma

Keith Cantú

Dr. Keith Edward Cantú is a postdoctoral fellow in Asian Religious Traditions at the Center for the Study of World Religions, Harvard Divinity School, where he is active as part of the Transcendence and Transformation Initiative. As a budding historian of religions, his interdisciplinary research especially focuses on South Asian yoga, tantra, and the interface […]

Learn more about Keith Cantú

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