Sravana Borkataky-Varma
Assistant Professor of Comparative Cultural Studies at the University of Houston and co-author of The Serpent’s Tale, specializing in kundalini, tantra, and embodied religious practices.
Best podcasts with Sravana Borkataky-Varma
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Dec 2, 2025 • 51min
Chasing the Serpent’s Tail with Sravana Borkataky-Varma and Anya Foxen
Sravana Borkataky-Varma, a scholar of Hindu tantra, and Anya Foxen, a historian of South Asian yogic traditions, dive into the fascinating history and complexities of Kundalini. They discuss its diverse definitions, from ancient Tantric practices to modern interpretations in yoga. The conversation highlights personal narratives of awakening, the interplay of energy and bodily experiences, and how these phenomena can lead to profound shifts in self-perception. They also explore the roles of teachers, lineages, and the intriguing overlaps with extraordinary states and possession.
Dec 4, 2025 • 1h 5min
Sravana Borkataky-Varma and Anya Foxen, "The Serpent’s Tale: Kundalini, Yoga, and the History of an Experience" (Columbia UP, 2025)
Sravana Borkataky-Varma, an expert in embodied religious practices, and Anya Foxen, a scholar of modern yoga, delve into the complexities of Kundalini in their discussion. They highlight the diverse interpretations of Kundalini, challenging the notion of a singular authentic experience. The duo explores its historical evolution from ancient texts to contemporary spirituality, touching on issues of commercialization and the risks of disembodied advice in online communities. They advocate for compassionate narratives to balance the fear often associated with Kundalini experiences.
