Understand Hinduism at its source.
Sri Vedic Academy
Study the original Sanskrit texts, question inherited assumptions and understand the tradition for yourself.
Sri Vedic Academy is for those who want to understand Hinduism beyond inherited assumptions, simplified retellings and second-hand interpretations. Through live courses, Kathā and open discussion, the Academy returns to the original Sanskrit sources, examining what the texts say, the context in which they say it and how different traditions have understood them.
Sessions combine original Sanskrit verses, word-by-word meaning, textual context, comparative readings, storytelling and open questions, all taught in clear English without diluting the depth of the source.
Meet the founder
Suri Shandilya
Born and raised in London, Suri's study of Hinduism began in his early teens following his Upanayana — the sacred thread ceremony. Within a few years he had learned Sanskrit and become proficient in chanting the Vedas, and from a young age he was sharing Vedic wisdom at Hindu centres, colleges and universities across the UK.
Read Suri's full story →Teachings
Recent talks and Kathā
The latest sessions from our YouTube channel.
About the Academy
Return to the source
Hinduism is vast, layered and too often reduced to a single translation, popular explanation or inherited belief. Sri Vedic Academy brings students back to the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad-gītā, Rāmāyaṇa, Mahābhārata and Purāṇas, with close attention to Sanskrit, context, chronology and differing interpretations. Founded and led by Suri Shandilya, the Academy makes serious scriptural study accessible in clear English while giving students the evidence and confidence to examine each question for themselves.
Source First
We begin with the original Sanskrit text, rather than a conclusion, quotation or popular retelling.
Context Matters
Verses are studied within their full passage, wider text, chronology and scriptural setting.
Evidence Over Assertion
References and reasoning are shown clearly, allowing students to examine the basis of each claim.
Interpretation Made Clear
The source text, translation, commentary and later tradition are distinguished rather than blended together.
Fearless Enquiry
Difficult questions, apparent contradictions and competing viewpoints are examined openly.
Respect Across Traditions
Different Hindu schools, teachers and sampradāyas are represented accurately and treated with respect.
Upcoming Kathā
Mahābhārata Kathā — live in English
Saturday 26 September 2026, 11am–5pm
Dhamecha Lohana Centre, South Harrow — in person
In-person sold out · livestream sign-up open
Journey into the world's greatest epic through a dramatic narration accompanied by live music. Witness the rise and fall of kingdoms, the struggles of families, and the conflict between duty and desire. Through the lives of its unforgettable characters, the Mahābhārata challenges us to rethink right and wrong, success and sacrifice, while offering timeless wisdom for navigating modern life.
Questions
Frequently asked
What is Sri Vedic Academy?
Sri Vedic Academy is a learning platform founded by Suri Shandilya for the serious but accessible study of Hinduism through original Sanskrit sources, proper context and open enquiry.
Who teaches the sessions?
Sessions are led by Suri Shandilya, a global corporate executive, Sanskrit and Vedic scholar, and Kathā speaker. His background, studies and teaching journey can be found on the About page.
What subjects does the Academy cover?
The Academy covers the Vedas, Upaniṣads, Bhagavad-gītā, Rāmāyaṇa, Mahābhārata, Purāṇas, mantras, Sanskrit terminology, Vedic practices and important questions surrounding Hindu philosophy, history and tradition.
Are the sessions suitable for beginners?
Yes. No previous knowledge of Sanskrit or Hindu scripture is required. Important words, verses and background are explained in clear English, while the sessions retain enough depth for those who have studied the texts before.
Does Sri Vedic Academy follow one particular interpretation?
Sri Vedic Academy is rooted in the Vedic tradition while recognising that Hinduism contains several schools, sampradāyas and commentarial traditions. Where texts or teachers offer different readings, those differences are stated clearly rather than presented as one universal Hindu position.
How can I attend, watch or invite Sri Vedic Academy?
Upcoming sessions, public Kathās, events and available recordings are listed on our YouTube channel. Temples, universities, community groups and professional organisations can use the invitation form to request a Kathā, lecture, seminar, course or a Q&A session.