Guruji Ramesh Natarajan
Deeksha Name: Sri AmruteshwaraNanda Natha “Saraswati”
An Eclectic Vedic & Spiritual Guru, Par Excellence
Unleash Your Spiritual Power with Guruji Ramesh Natarajan
Guruji Ramesh Natarajan is a Vedic & Spiritual guru on a mission to demystify ancient wisdom and make it accessible to the modern world. With a razor-sharp wit and uncompromising commitment to technical excellence, he is revolutionizing the way we approach sacred chanting. Embark on a transformative journey into the ancient wisdom of the Vedas under the guidance of Guruji Ramesh Natarajan, an eclectic, and unorthodox, yet revered Vedic guru amongst international audience for his technical excellence. With a deep reverence for tradition combined with a progressive approach,
he empowers individuals, and especially women, to explore the profound depths of Vedic chanting, Durga Saptashati, and Sri Vidya.
Guruji Ramesh Natarajan, a Tamilian by birth, is adept in other languages aside from English, especially speaking chaste Hindi, and few of other languages like Bengali, and Malayalam.
Working Professional
Guruji Ramesh Natarajan is a working finance professional with multiple academic and professional degrees: B.Com. (Honours), and ICWA from India, MBA from Edinburgh Business School, and ACCA from UK, CPA, CMA, and CGA from Canada, and CFM from USA.
GRD Iyers GuruCool Vidyalaya (Vedic Gurukul)
Guruji Ramesh Natarajan, a family man, and a working finance professional has been running the Vedic Gurukul based in Greater Toronto Area (Canada) for over 23 years along with his wife, Smt. Gayathri Sridevi (aka Guruma), who herself is equally adept at anything that Guruji Natarajan provides in terms of knowledge and skills. The GuruCool imparts all knowledge and skills to anyone without any discrimination (of nationality, religion, creed, or community), in the true spirit of सनातन धर्म:/ Sanatana Dharma as has been practiced by the sages of yore over millennia.
Ramesh Natarajan, fondly known as the "Cool Guru” - and hence the name GuruCool, instead of the traditional Gurukul - stands out for its inclusive approach and commitment to preserving the rich heritage of Vedic teachings. The other standout feature of GuruCool is its ability and technique to teach skills to chant and perform rituals cutting across all age - from pre-teens, adolescents, young, middle age, old, to very old. While each take their own time to learn appropriate skills, nobody is forced out because they couldn’t learn fast enough. Everyone is encouraged to keep trying and learning.
The GuruCool’s medium of instruction is primarily English in keeping with its international character, and the skills are imparted mostly online through Zoom with students spread all over the world (Canada, USA, India, the Middle East, Europe, and other geographies)
What sets Ramesh Natarajan apart is his unwavering dedication to sharing his knowledge without any discrimination, and expectation. His classes are open to all, and he considers it his dharma to impart the sacred teachings to those who seek them. This selfless approach is a rare and admirable quality in the modern spiritual landscape, where commercialization and exclusivity often prevail.
In a world where ancient traditions are often overshadowed by modernity, Ramesh Natarajan's efforts to preserve and propagate the sacred teachings of Hinduism are truly commendable.
Ramesh Natarajan has a deep reverence for the Vedas, the ancient scriptures that form the bedrock of Hindu philosophy and spirituality. He tirelessly teaches the intricate art of Vedic chanting, ensuring that the sacred mantras are recited with utmost precision and devotion. His students, transcending barriers of caste, creed, and gender, are given the opportunity to immerse themselves in the profound wisdom of the Vedas.
Breaking Barriers of Religion, Age, Gender, Caste, Creed, Race, and Nationality
GuruCool truly believes and practices that no what is your current status, you are welcome to become a student. Gurucool therefore is a place where you will find student that cut across above barriers including from other religion, and from all over the world.
Unparalleled Breadth of Teaching by GuruCool
While there are schools that focus one or other spiritual practices, some focusing just on theory, and some on practical aspects of spirituality, what sets apart GuruCool from other contemporaries is both theory and practical aspects of learning, and while providing unparalleled breadth of teaching encompassing the spiritual trinity of
➜ Vedic Chanting
➜ Sri Durga Saptashati (Devi Mahatmyam, श्री दुर्गा सप्तशती), and
➜ Sri Vidya Tantra
Each Student to His/Her own Preference
While this comprehensive approach ensures that willing students get opportunity to receive a holistic understanding of the diverse facets of Hindu spirituality, it is not mandatory that all students have to embrace the entire trinity. A student must at least choose one strand of the trinity and be on a learning path to be an active member of GuruCool. If a student is not diligent in progressing through at least one path, he or she could be demoted to an aspirant forum (more about Telegram forums in later sections) from being a student. Though each strand of trinity requires its own rigour, discipline, and time commitment, there are few students who have successfully embraced all strands of the trinity.
Confluence of Theory & Practice
While theoretical knowledge is essential, GRD Iyers GuruCool recognizes the importance of practical application in spiritual growth. Hence the remarkable offering is bolstered by rigorous insistence on achieving technical excellence in delivery, and providing ample opportunities in practicing and showcasing talents of students in real events, a rare combo of theory and practice not found in many spiritual schools.
As mentioned, public events where students get to practice what they learn, are conducted by GuruCool themselves or in association with other spiritual groups or temples. Events that are held across the globe (North America, India, UK, Middle East etc.) periodically throughout the year. While the teachings are entirely through online Zoom classes, such events not just cement students’ knowledge through putting them into practice, they also get opportunity to connect with fellow students from other geographical area and with their guru and mentors.
Communication, Technology, and Etiquette
All day-to-day communication within GRD Iyers GuruCool take place through multiple Telegram forums. There is a forum for those aspiring to join GuruCool, one for current students (which is main forum), and forums related to multiple learning groups, and activities within GuruCool. Private messages using Telegram within students do happen though on a need-to basis only, and not used for socializing, sharing personal photos etc. Private groups within GuruCool are allowed only when authorized by Guruji Natarajan. Student always address each other with a “Ji” suffix to show respect whether in groups or in personal communication, and written communication always start with the traditional “Namkaskar 🙏”.
A Pioneer in YouTube Classroom
Guruji Natarajan is a prominent figure in the realm of Vedic teaching, leveraging the power of YouTube to disseminate ancient wisdom to a global audience. As the founder of GRD Iyers GuruCool school of Spiritual studies, he has pioneered a unique approach to imparting Vedic knowledge through modern digital platforms.
Vedic & Religious Teachings on YouTube
Natarajan's YouTube channel serves as a virtual classroom, where he conducts puja demonstrations, chanting sessions of sacred texts like the Bhagya Suktam, Rudra Ghanam/ रुद्र घनम्, Rudra Kramam/ रुद्र क्रमम्, or Acchidram/ अच्छिद्रम्.
His videos are not mere recordings but interactive sessions, allowing viewers to engage with the teachings and ask questions in real-time.
Through his clear and concise delivery, Guruji Natarajan demystifies complex Vedic concepts, making them accessible to a diverse audience. He emphasizes the practical application of these teachings in daily life, encouraging viewers to incorporate Vedic principles into their personal and spiritual growth.
Bridging Ancient Wisdom and Modern Technology
Guruji Natarajan's innovative approach bridges the gap between ancient Vedic traditions and modern technology. By leveraging the reach and convenience of YouTube, he has democratized access to Vedic knowledge, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.
His efforts have not only preserved and promoted the rich heritage of Hinduism but also introduced it to a new generation of seekers who might have otherwise remained disconnected from their roots. Guruji Natarajan's work exemplifies the adaptability and relevance of Vedic teachings in the contemporary world.
Teaching Materials
Almost all YouTube driven teaching videos have been created by Guruji Ramesh Natarajan alone over 2 decades using from the early days of at-home classes and more recently through Zoom classes. Students also assist in producing various teaching documents (PDF) in different languages viz Devanagari, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam. Students are free to use any of the YouTube teaching materials at their convenience for self learning or to bolster their leaning from YouTube classes they might have attended.
In addition to YouTube, GuruCool also uses extensively the high quality hard bound highly illustrated books written by Guruji Ramesh Natarajan with substantial efforts by students (more of this in later section).
GuruCool also uses teaching documents made available freely by many organizations e.g. VedaVMS, SanskritDocuments.org, Prapatti, and others.
Teachers & Mentors
Guruji Natarajan is the primary and only teacher for the entire Trinity. While self learning using YouTube teaching materials is required, since the breadth of knowledge being imparted is so huge, frequent Zoom mentoring sessions are organized to handhold students’ learning from such materials.
Mentoring sessions are usually led by a mentor. Mentors are senior experienced students in various strands of trinity, appointed by Guruji Ramesh Natarajan periodically. Mentors provide such services free of cost, spending their own time outside of their professional career, and even incurring their own cost in subscribing to Zoom etc.
It is quite possible for a mentor in one strand of learning to be mentored by other in a different strand of learning. This process keeps mentors humble that everyone needs to be on a learning path at any given point in time. The seniority is determined by Guruji Natarajan by students’ willingness and ability to serve, and does not offer such seniors any privilege within GuruCool.
Defining Features of GuruCool
Vedic Chanting, Mastering the Art
At the core of Guruji Ramesh's teachings lies a profound understanding of the nuances and intricacies of Vedic chanting. He believes that true mastery lies not just in recitation but in a deep comprehension of the underlying mechanics the precise intonations, rhythms, and breath control, and other mechanics that unlock the transformative power of these ancient mantras. Through his expert tutelage, you'll learn to chant the sacred mantras with precision, unlocking their transformative power and experiencing the profound peace and clarity they bestow. Guruji Ramesh Natarajan is a master of Vedic chanting, an art form that dates back thousands of years.
Chanting Grammer
Guruji Natarajan through his innovative techniques and unwavering dedication, empowers students to transcend memorization and achieve a level of technical proficiency that breathes new life into these timeless verses. It’s rare to find a moden guru who has transformed esoteric and often intimidating vedic chanting for a layman (of any age young to very old) into intelligible grammar of Chanting Rules through his well know YouTube videos, a feature that is not available anywhere in the internet. This combined with his often unconventional teaching methodology (e.g. syllable chanting, reverse chanting etc.) makes it easier to learn chanting by older and younger students alike not having any spiritual or chanting background.
Taking Vedic Chanting to New Heights
While vedic chanting journey starts with learning to chant Shri Rudram, and later Chamakam, students are encouraged to successively learn more advanced vedic chanting, which among others include, Mahanyasam, various suktams, Rig Vedic Suktams, etc. Table lists some of these texts. It shows unparalleled commitment to provide advanced vedic chanting not found in many contemporary schools. Following just a high level representation (not comprehensive) of vedic chants being taught.
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
Chanting Classes
As mentioned earlier Guruji Natarajan teaches vedic texts through Zoom sessions. While selected students one by one are called upon to chant after him during the class, each and every verse is repeated multiple times to hone in the swara, cadence, intonation, and chanting rules. Guruji Ramesh stops and corrects, if and when required to ensure chanting is delivered with quality. Before the baton passes over to another student Guruji Ramesh and student go over the portion taught multiple times in a jugalbandi/ जुगलबंदी style with each chanting alternate verse. Usually such classes are broadcast live over YouTube, and the video becomes the teaching material, part of the ever expanding library of GuruCool.
Chanting Practices
GuruCool frequently organizes group chanting practices that provide ample opportunity for students to practice and master advanced and often complex vedic chanting texts as listed in the table. Such sessions are usually hosted by senior mentors and feedbacks are provided during sessions giving students opportunity to repeat chant and correct themselves.
Internal Certification
Students are frequently tested for proficiency in Shri Rudram, श्री रुद्रम्, a gateway to higher vedic learning. Internal certification in technically correct Vedic chanting propels students to greater heights by instilling a deep sense of discipline, precision, and cultural pride. This certification process ensures that students master the intricate nuances of Vedic recitation, including proper pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm, which are crucial for preserving the authenticity and vibrational impact of these ancient texts. Moreover, achieving certification boosts students' confidence and self-esteem, providing them with a sense of accomplishment and a recognized credential that can enhance their spiritual pursuits. This mastery not only enriches their personal spiritual practice but also positions them as knowledgeable custodians of their cultural heritage, capable of teaching and inspiring others. Ultimately, the certification serves as a testament to their dedication and excellence, encouraging them to continue striving for higher levels of achievement in their spiritual endeavours.
Durga Saptashati, Bowing to Shakti
Delve into the captivating world of Durga Saptashati, a revered text that celebrates the divine feminine energy. Under Guruji Ramesh Natarajan's guidance, you'll unravel the layers of symbolism and wisdom contained within these powerful verses, empowering you to tap into your inner strength and resilience through excellence in chanting.
Durga Saptashati, दुर्गा सप्तशती, A Key Focus Area in GuruCool
The Durga Saptashati, also known as the Devi Mahatmyam, a revered Hindu scripture consisting of 700 verses dedicated to Goddess Durga, holds a special place in Guruji Ramesh Natarajan's teachings. This revered text, which extols the glory of the Divine Mother, is not only recited but also deeply understood under his guidance. He has led numerous events, including the World Shakti Day celebrations, where the Durga Saptashati is chanted with fervors, empowering women and promoting their active participation in spiritual practices. Public events could also include Chandi Homam/ होमम् where not only they could chant but also perform homam/ होमम्.
Chanting
Like vedic texts, regular classes on learning Durga Saptashati, दुर्गा सप्तशती is conducted either by Guruji, or most cases by the mentors, and frequent practice sessions are conducted for gaining proficiency in chanting. Chanting rules that apply to vedic text also apply equally to Durga Saptashati, दुर्गा सप्तशती and students are honed in the skill of chanting with technical excellence.
Chanting the Durga Saptashati, profoundly transforms students' spiritual lives by fostering a deep sense of inner strength, resilience, and devotion. Engaging in this powerful practice, students connect with the divine energy of Durga, known for her protective and nurturing qualities. This connection instills a sense of courage and confidence, enabling them to navigate personal challenges with greater ease and determination. The rhythmic recitation and contemplation of the sacred verses also promote mental clarity and focus, which are crucial for active life. Beyond intellectual benefits, the spiritual discipline involved in regular chanting nurtures humility, gratitude, and a deeper understanding of dharma (righteousness), guiding students to lead balanced, purposeful lives aligned with higher spiritual principles. Through this transformative practice, students not only enhance their spiritual well-being but also cultivate virtues that enrich their overall character and life journey.
Internal Certification
While Sri Durga Saptashati (Devi Mahatmyam, श्री दुर्गा सप्तशती) text for chanting is available freely in the internet, GuruCool now uses the hardbound highly illustrated book of 350 pages written by Guruji Ramesh Natarajan, which is not just used for chanting but performing Chandi Homam complete with all poorvangam and uttarangam, mudras etc. More details about the book has been provided in later sections. It is taught to aspiring students with as much technical excellence as any vedic text, and students are frequently tested for internal certification, which becomes pre-requisite for other learning like Sri-Vidya.
Internal certification on chanting the Durga Saptashati motivate students to strive for greater excellence by providing a structured framework for spiritual and personal growth. This certification process encourages students to commit to a disciplined practice, fostering perseverance and dedication. As they work towards mastering the intricate verses and their correct intonation, students develop enhanced concentration, memory, and cognitive skills. The recognition of their efforts through certification boosts their confidence and sense of of achievement, motivating them to pursue further excellence in spiritual endeavours.
Sri Vidya Tantra, Key to Liberation
Sri Vidya, the sacred knowledge of the divine feminine, is a profound and esoteric tradition. Guruji Ramesh Natarajan's teachings will initiate you into this ancient path, unveiling the secrets of self-realization and spiritual enlightenment. Sri Vidya Tantra, a profound spiritual tradition that explores the divine feminine energy.
Exploring the Esoteric Realms of Sri Vidya
His teachings in this area are a testament to his commitment to preserving and disseminating the rich tapestry of Hindu spiritual practices. Under his tutelage, students gain insights into the intricate symbolism and rituals associated with Sri Vidya, unlocking the doors to a deeper understanding of the cosmic principles, and path to liberation.
Deeksha in Sri-Vidya
Guruji Natarajan (Deeksha name Sri Amruteshwarananda Natha “Saraswati”), comes from the lineage of his guru, Sri Chaitanyananda Natha “Saraswati” of Shri Raja Raajeshwari Peetham, Rochester, New York, and Sri-La-Sri Amrutananda Natha “Saraswati” Mahabhattaraka (Guruji Ramesh Natarajan’s Parama guru i.e. his guru’s guru).
Deeksha name is given only after Guruji is satisfied that a student has fulfilled all requirements over a period time spending substantial time and effort, and practice requirements. Hence Deeksha is held in high regard and considered one of the highest achievement by a student in GuruCool. Deeksha name is conferred through initiation into deeksha mantra through a ceremony called “Poornabhishekham”. Once a Deeksha is conferred, a student is held to a much higher standard of conduct and discipline within GuruCool. Such students become part of a select group within GuruCool, called “Amrit Chaitanya Mandali”, the name conferred upon by Guruji Natarajan’s guru.
Initiation into Sri-Vidya
The path to Sri-Vidya within GuruCool starts with willing students who have already crossed the entry criteria set out by GuruCool. Guruji Natarajan initiates students into Guru Paduka Mantra, Bala Mantra, Ganapati Mantra, and Navakshari Mantra, and few other mantras.
Practicing & Progression within Sri-Vidya
Practicing of Sri-Vidya requires substantial time commitment (about 2+ hours) from a student on a daily basis. Practicing each Mantra, which contains Beeja Mantra, requires performing various Nyasams, Dhyanam, and Pancha Puja followed by जपम/ Japam of the Beeja mantra, followed again by closing Nyasam, Dhyanam, and Pancha Puja. Aside from the mantras, students have also to chant Guru Paduka mantra, and Brahmavidya Sampradaya Guru Stotram_श्री ब्रह्मविद्या सम्प्रदाय गुरु स्तोत्रम, and perform activities under Bhoota Shuddhi. Other requirement could include chanting of श्री ललिता सहस्रनाम स्तोत्रम् / Lalitha Sahasranama Stotram etc.
Since Beeja mantra recitation has to be done multiple times and each of the above activities have to be done, a minimum commitment of 2 hours is required on a daily basis. GuruCool sets a high bar from students in terms of numbers of जपम/ japam to be performed within a prescribed amount of days after initiation, after which they are tested for their practices and knowledge. On successful completion they move to higher level of initiation and activities.
Puja within Sri-Vidya Practices
Only when students move up the levels of Sri-Vidya practices to “Panchadasi”, they are initiated into performing various pujas. Puja within Sri-Vidya is an elaborate activity, which when performed with all requirement could take about 3+ hours. Such pujas are usually performed during many public events dedicated to such activites. There are many level to puja itself. Pujas are conducted over Zoom usually on a weekly basis led either by Guruji Natarajan or senior mentors. Only when these are performed consistently over a period of time by a student, guru could invite him/her for a Poornabhishekham ceremony giving them a Deeksha name.
Empowering Women, Transforming Traditions
Guruji Ramesh is a vocal advocate for women's empowerment within the Vedic tradition. Challenging long-held patriarchal norms in recent times (as opposed to how it was practiced during medieval times), he champions the inclusion and elevation of women in sacred spaces, recognizing their inherent strength and wisdom as equal custodians of this profound knowledge. His teachings are designed to break down barriers and empower women to reclaim their rightful place as spiritual leaders and guides, fostering a more inclusive and equitable spiritual landscape. Its no surprise that women lap up he is teachings and outnumber men in the GuruCool including in leadership roles in mentoring others and performing rituals.
His teachings are a clarion call for gender equality, inviting women to reclaim their rightful place as leaders, scholars, and practitioners in the Vedic realm, shattering glass ceilings with every resonant chant.
Women Only Public Events
Guruji Ramesh Natarajan, has taken a commendable step towards in promoting women's empowerment through an initiative called "World Shakti Day." This event, spearheaded by his wife, Sridevi Gayathri, aims to celebrate and empower women through various spiritual and cultural activities.
One of the key aspects of World Shakti Day is the organization of women-only public events, such as Ladies Only Maharudram and Shatachandi Homam. These events provide a safe and inclusive space for women to come together, connect, and engage in spiritual practices.
First Ladies Only Maharudram & Shatachandi
The most recent ladies only event, called Ladies Only Maharudram and Shatachandi Homam was performed by ladies of GuruCool in October 2023 at Brampton, of Greater Toronto Area (Canada). This event was led by Gurma Sridevi Gayathri - wife of Guruji Natarajan. Such events are rooted in ancient spiritual traditions and practices. By providing women with the opportunity to participate in these rituals without the presence of men, Guruji Ramesh Natarajan and Sridevi Gayathri are empowering women to reclaim and embrace their spiritual heritage.
These events not only foster a sense of community and sisterhood among the participants but also serve as a platform for personal growth and self-discovery. Through the practice of advanced levels of puja, chanting, and other spiritual activities, women are encouraged to tap into their inner strength and cultivate a sense of self-confidence and empowerment.
Redefining Gender Barriers
By designating men as volunteers and servers during these events, Guruji Ramesh Natarajan and Sridevi Gayathri are challenging traditional gender roles and promoting a more equitable society. This role reversal sends a powerful message about re-igniting the ancient practices of सनातन धर्म:/ Sanatana Dharma, somewhat lost in modern times, on the importance of women in the role of Shakti, and it encourages men to reintegrate with earlier practice for gender equality.
During these events, men take on a supportive role, serving as volunteers and assisting in various capacities, including serving meals to the participating ladies. This role reversal challenges traditional gender norms and promotes a sense of equality and respect for women.
Moreover, the act of men serving meals to women during these events is also a symbolic gesture that acknowledges the often-overlooked contributions of women in various spheres of life. It is a reminder that women deserve to be celebrated, respected, and supported in their endeavours.
Author of Spiritual Books
Yet another uncommon aspect unlike most modern gurus is that Guruji Ramesh Natarajan, along with students of GuruCool, has also authored spiritual hardbound professionally color illustrated books “Sri Vidya Navavarana Puja/ श्रीविद्या नवावरण पूजा” and “Durga Saptashati, दुर्गा सप्तशती”.
Endorsement of Books
Both the books have been endorsed by many spiritual organizations and gurus of Sanatana Dharma including Guruji’s guru. More books are on the cards. The books are available in Devanagari as the primary source, and in other languages such as English, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam.
Books with Collective Efforts of Students
The books are combined efforts of Guruji & Guruma along with many students contributing freely their time and efforts on various aspects of the production e.g. photography, proof reading, translation into multiple languages, typesetting, illustrations, print coordination, distribution, etc. Guruji Natarajan is an excellent sketch artist himself and both books include many of his sketches, including prominently those depicted right on the covers of his two books shown here. The devanagari language version of both books are also available on Kindle in Amazon.
Proceeds of Sale of Books
Another remarkable aspect of the books are that the proceeds don’t go to Guruji’s coffers but to the GuruCool’s coffers to support more such excellent productions in future. In an era where the philanthropic spirit is increasingly celebrated, the decision by authors to donate their book sales to organizations rather than retaining the profits for themselves is a commendable. This altruistic approach not only amplifies the impact of their literary work but also aligns with broader social and humanitarian goals. This practice transforms their creative efforts into tangible benefits for communities in fostering a culture of generosity and social responsibility. This philanthropic approach to book sales thus represents a powerful synergy between literature and charity, where the written word becomes a vehicle for positive change and societal betterment.
Books to Actual Practice
These books form the bedrock of most rituals performed by the students on various occasions. Practical application of a book's content underscores the dynamic relationship between reader and author. When students take the time to implement the advice, techniques, or philosophies presented in a book, they validate the Guruji’s efforts and bring the written word to life. This interaction goes beyond passive consumption, fostering a deeper connection and a more profound respect for the material. Books that are put into practice contribute to ongoing personal and spiritual development, encouraging a culture of lifelong learning and continuous improvement. This practical engagement ensures that books serve their highest purpose: not merely as static objects, but as instruments of transformation and vehicles for progress.
Major Public Events
While some of the public major events related to women only were mentioned earlier, here is the list of events held in the recent past:
Year 2024
➜ July (Mississauga, Toronto area, Canada): Celebrated as World Shakti Day consisting of Suvasini Puja on a 2500 sq. ft. Sri Chakra, Lalitha Sahasranama
Koti Kunkuma Archana, SriChakra Navavarana Puja with a grand Guru Mandala puja
➜ August (Sai Center, Mason, OH, USA): 3-day event celebrated as World Shakti Day consisting of Sri-Vidya Navavarana Puja, Rudrabhiskhekham, Rudra Kramarchana, and Chandi Homam
➜ October (Rishikesh, India): 5-day event including Laksha Modaka Ganapati Homam, Chandi Homam, Rudra Homam, Panchayatana Puja, Gau Puja, Advanced Vedic Chanting (Udakashanti, Rudra Ghanam, Rudra Kramam & Archana), Rudrabhiskhekham, Lalita Sahasranama Laksharchana, SriVidya Navavarana Puja, Poornabhishekha Deeksha Vaibhavam, of qualified upasakas etc.
Year 2023
➜ November: Suvasini Puja (1000 ladies), and Sri Chakra Navavarana Puja
➜ October: Chandi Homam as part of Durga Puja celebrations with Durga Murti specifically made and imported from Kolkata
➜ November: Ladies Only Maharudram/ Homam/ होमम् celebrated as “World Shakti Day”
➜ November: Laksha Modaka Maha Ganapathy Homam/ होमम्
➜ July: Ati Rudram/ Homam/ होमम् at Sri Vidya Temple Society (SVTS), Rochester, NY, USA
➜ May: Maharudram/ Homam/ होमम् at Brampton of Greater Toronto Area, Ontario, Canada
➜ April: Ati Rudram/ Homam/ होमम् performed simultaneously at 36 homa kundams at Atlanta, GA, USA
➜ Mar & April: Rudra Ghanam/ रुद्र घनम् Chanting in Brampton, Greater Toronto Area (Canada)
➜ February: Poornabhishekham and Sahasra Chandi, at Devipuram, Vishakhapatnam, India
Year 2022
➜ October: Poornabhishekham providing deeksha name to select GuruCool upasakas for their achievement at Sri Vidya Temple Society (SVTS), Rochester, NY, USA
➜ October: Chandi Homam/ होमम् at Brampton, Greater Toronto Area (Canada)
➜ September: Gita Mahotsav Parade with truck mounted float of mock homam/ होमम् at downtown with chanting of vedic mantras
➜ August: Laksha Modaka Homam/ होमम् in association with Sri Vidya Temple Society (SVTS), Rochester, NY, USA
➜ July: Shatachandi and Sri Chakra Puja at Sri Vidya Temple Society (SVTS), Rochester, NY, USA
➜ June: Maha Rudra Homam/ होमम्, Shata Chandi Homam/ होमम्, and Sri Vidya Navavarana Puja celebrated as “Word Shakti Day” in association with Hindu Temple of Dayton, OH, USA
➜ May: Maha Rudra Homam/ होमम् in association with Bharatiya Hindu Temple at Columbus, OH, USA
Year 2020 (During COVID)
➜ MaghaMaka Mahotsavam– Mallapuram, Kerala, India
Year 2019, 2018, 2017 (Prior to COVID)
➜ Kumbhabhisekham- Chennai, India (2019)
➜ World’s first All Women Shata Chandi in Rochester, NY, USA(2019)
➜ Sahasra Suvasini Puja – Toronto, Canada (2018)
➜ Ati Rudram - Atlanta, USA (2018)
➜ Dwi Shata Chandi – Florida, USA (2018)
➜ Maharudram & Shata Chandi - Toronto, Canada- (2018)
➜ Shata Chandi & Sahasra Chandi- Rochester, NY, USA (2017)
Awards & Accolades
When excellence is nurtured over a long period of time combined with continuing services for the society and humanity, recognition does follow. Rightly Guru Ramesh Natarajan has been recognized by multitude of organizations and personalities. These include
➜ Guruji & Guruma getting audience with President of India, Smt. Draupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s Official Home), New Delhi, where they happened to present authored books to the President.
➜ Trikkandiyur Achutha Pisharadi Award from Oral Research History Foundation, Kerala – Jan 2020
➜ Lifetime Achievement Award – Ontario Telugu Foundation, Canada – April 2022
➜ Community Service Recognition by Logan Kanapathi, MPP, Ontario Legislature – April 2022
➜ Lifetime Excellence Award – Chanakyaa, Tamil Nadu (founded by renowned journalist Rangaraj Pandey) – June 2022
Kailash Yatra
It was a chance encounter of Guruji & Guruma with Kailash enthusiasts that gave an opportunity for GuruCool members to take the trip to Mount Kailash, one of the most revered pilgrimages in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism - the abode of Bhagawan Mahadev & Parvati - for the first time in 2015. Since then GuruCool has organized a total of 4 trips to Kailash, including the recent trip that concluded in September 2024.
Yatra Managed by Professional Team
The Yatra starts with reaching Kathmandu, Nepal with all arrangements for lodging, boarding, processing visa with Chinese Embassy, and taking you through to Kailash and back etc. are managed by a well know Kailash Yatra agent who has served GuruCool in all their yatras so far.
The professional travel agent managing arrangements for the Kailash Yatra, plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling journey for pilgrims. They meticulously handle all aspects of the trip, from securing necessary permits and visas to organizing travel itineraries that include accommodations, and local transportation.
Understanding the remote and challenging terrain, they coordinate with reliable local guides and support teams to ensure the safety and comfort of the pilgrims. The agent also arranges for acclimatization schedules to help travellers adjust to the high altitudes, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Additionally, they provide detailed information about the spiritual significance of Mount Kailash and the Lake Manasarovar, enriching the pilgrims' experience with historical and religious context. By managing logistics and contingencies, the travel agent allows pilgrims to focus on their spiritual practices and personal reflections, making the arduous journey a seamless and transformative experience.
Snippets from Guruji’s Kailash Memoire
Private Teaching & Services
Many patrons outside of GuruCool, who have attended his public events are awed by Guruji Natarajan’s knowledge and passion for teaching and have been requesting him over years to teach them or their kids in private. While he has avoided this for decades, of late he has taken a small step in that direction due to increasing and persistent demand, especially parents for their children. For children the teaching is done exclusively by Guruji through YouTube with the consent of their parents under the program called Aadarsha Yuva Mandali training.
In addition, Guruji Natarajan has also happily offered his time for conducting private services GuruCool members e.g. Upanayanam of GuruCool student’s kids, or ShastiAbdaPurthy celebration of GuruCool couple.
Preserving and Promoting Vedic Culture
Beyond his online presence, Guruji Natarajan's contributions extend to preserving and promoting Vedic culture through various initiatives. He has been instrumental in organizing events that celebrate and educate people about the depth and diversity of Hinduism.
How it All Began
Early Days
During early days, the GuruCool was run from Guruji Natarajan’s home basement in Toronto, while Guruma Sridevi Gayathri would cook sometimes 7 days a week daily for several years for more than 50-60 students every day. Not a single cent was charged for classes or serving the students. It was the onset of COVID that led from in-person at-home teaching to Zoom based online classes, which has now spread with students across continents.
What Made Him Guru
Indian landscape is replete with examples of great sages and Rishis, who once were not what they eventually became, because of a spark that propelled them to spirituality. While Guruji Ramesh Natarajan would never compare himself to such Rishis, his story is somewhat similar how a spark one day propelled him from being a non-religious (but not anti-religious) to Guruji Ramesh Natarajan. So in his late 30s he re-discovered purpose of this life and set to become master of all that he has become now. To know his personal story <please click here>.
Join the Revolution
Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or a curious newcomer, Guruji Ramesh Natarajan's eclectic approach promises to ignite your spiritual journey like never before. Embrace the revolution, master the art of chanting, and unlock the boundless potential within – a world of ancient wisdom awaits, reimagined for the modern age. Unlock the profound wisdom of the Vedas, embrace the divine feminine, and unleash your full potential.
If you want to join GRD Iyers GuruCool, <please click here>.