Connecting Tradition and Heart-Centered Spirituality
Kedarnathan Subramanian
Kedarnathan Subramanian founded Siva Ashram in 2017 as a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual purity and authentic Hindu practices. While the ashram is deeply rooted in traditional teachings, Kedarnathan believes that spirituality should remain joyful, accessible, and integrated with everyday life.
His journey to creating the ashram began with a deep exploration of spirituality beyond the bounds of organized religion. Raised in Quebec in an evangelical Christian family, Kedarnathan soon realized that the doctrines he was taught were just the start of a much larger spiritual adventure. This realization led him on a 12-year quest through mystical and New Age traditions, from Christ consciousness to Kabbalah, from Kriya Yoga to deep Hindu philosophy and devotional practices, particularly in India and Sri Lanka.
A significant chapter of his spiritual journey involved studying at Kauai Hindu Monastery, which led to his embrace of a monastic lifestyle and his name change to reflect his spiritual transformation. Further deepening his path, he spent time as a brahmachari with the Ramakrishna Mission in Southern California, where he worked closely with Swami Sarvadevananda and Swami Mahayogananda, gaining insights that continue to shape his teachings.
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Through extensive travels in India and Sri Lanka, and living in various traditional ashrams, Kedarnathan’s practice of Hindu rituals and philosophy deepened. He now brings these authentic practices to Siva Ashram, offering morning Ganesha Pujas, evening Kirtans, and other Hindu ceremonies. He has also embraced one-on-one coaching and circle leadership, guiding individuals and groups through profound spiritual journeys with the wisdom of Hindu teachings and rituals.
One of the pivotal moments in his spiritual evolution was receiving Karma Sannyasa from an Avadhuta near Rishikesh, India, in 2022. This initiation instilled within him the principles of Karma Yoga, emphasizing selfless service and spiritual liberation while engaging with the world.
As a Karma Sannyasi, Kedarnathan’s life revolves around using every experience as an opportunity for deep healing, transformation, and sharing spiritual light. His commitment to Karma Yoga aligns with the values of Siva Ashram, where meditation, service, and devotion are approached with a light heart and open mind.
In addition to his work at Siva Ashram, Kedarnathan offers one-on-one coaching sessions to help individuals connect with their spiritual paths and leads circles that foster community, self-discovery, and connection to the divine. His mission is to assist others in building authentic relationships with the divine, whether through traditional Hindu deities or other aspects of the sacred, helping them navigate trauma, loss of tradition, and preconceived notions about rigid spiritual systems.
Before founding Siva Ashram, Kedarnathan worked as a mental health counselor and is a registered naturotherapist in Quebec. His certifications in Yoga, Hypnotherapy, Neurosemantics, and Reiki enable him to offer holistic spiritual guidance.
Together with Rajesh, Kedarnathan continues to expand Siva Ashram as a place for authentic Hindu practices, one-on-one spiritual coaching, and joyful community engagement.
Our team
Rajesh Mohana Sundaram
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Rajesh arrived from Tamil Nadu, India and joined the Ashram in February 2023. He is still adapting to the culture and ways of the West and is currently learning French through the Quebec Government’s full-time study program.
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He holds a master’s degree in social work and has worked and lived in India, Dubai, and Singapore. Rajesh has also lived in many ashrams in India, completing a 6-month Purohit (Hindu priest) training with Chinmaya Mission in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, a 500-hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, 3 months of training in Vedanta Philosophy with Arsha Vidhya Gurukkulam in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, and a Karma Yoga Certification in Sivananda Ashram, Trivandrum, Kerala.
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Rajesh serves as the pujari who performs the Havan (fire ceremony) during retreats and events at the ashram. He is also passionate about preparing delicious Ayurvedic South Indian dishes and enjoys teaching Indian cooking to others. Dance and body movement are integral to his spiritual sadhana, and he loves incorporating these practices into his daily routine.
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As part of his cultural integration, Rajesh is focused on finding a balance between the ways of the West (Canada) and the ways of the East (India). This balance helps him better share the tools and knowledge he brings with him to the seekers who visit the ashram.
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He has recently discovered a passion for cats and loves to learn about other people, their values, life experiences, cultures, and spirituality. Rajesh will help you settle in at the ashram and ensure that you are comfortable and well cared for. He will also guide and assist you in some of the Karma Yoga work tasks.
Feline Spiritual Guides​
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At Siva Ashram, our spiritual journey wouldn't be complete without the presence of our beloved feline companions, each adding their unique charm to the ashram's atmosphere.
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Chewbacca, our cuddly grey elder male, is more than just a cat—he’s a seasoned zootherapist. With his calming presence and gentle purrs, Chewbacca has a way of making everyone feel at home. He’s the go-to comforter for anyone needing a little extra love during their stay.
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Lentil, the slender grey eldest female, is a bit more reserved and selective in her affections. She’s the guardian of the Karma Yogi cabin area, overseeing it with quiet dignity. Lentil’s love is something you earn, and once you do, you’ll find she’s as loyal as they come.
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Munji is the young adventurer of the group, a lively orange Persian who brings energy and playfulness wherever he goes. The youngest of the clan, Munji is always up for an exploration or a bit of mischief, reminding us all to embrace our inner child.
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Then there’s Bouli, our non-binary elegant orange cat with the spirit of an eternal kitten. Peaceful and full of joy, Bouli has a knack for lightening the mood and spreading happiness. Their playful antics and gentle nature make them a favorite among both guests and staff.
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Together, our cats not only contribute to the warmth and welcoming energy of Siva Ashram but also serve as silent teachers, reminding us of the beauty of simplicity, presence, and unconditional love. Whether they're lounging in the sun, greeting new arrivals, or offering a quiet moment of connection, these feline friends are an integral part of our ashram family.
