What is Kirtan? A Guide to This Powerful Practice of Collective Singing
What is kirtan, and why is it considered one of the most uplifting spiritual practices in the world?
Kirtan is more than just music! Rooted in ancient traditions, it’s a spiritual and communal practice of call-and-response singing that offers a unique way to connect with the divine, others, and oneself.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about kirtan, starting with its meaning and historical origins. We’ll dive into its key elements, uncover the transformative benefits, and spotlight some of the renowned figures who have brought this art form to the global stage.
You’ll also learn how to participate in a kirtan session, along with helpful tips for first-timers. Finally, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions to help you embrace this enriching practice with confidence.
My personal journey with kirtan began as a participant, where I was deeply moved by the sense of peace, joy, and connection it brought into my life. Over time, this passion inspired me to start leading my own kirtan sessions, sharing this transformative practice with others.
Whether you’re seeking inner peace, emotional healing, or a sense of belonging, kirtan offers something for everyone.
This post answers the question: What is Kirtan?
What is Kirtan?
Kirtan is a form of devotional music that combines chanting, singing, and music to create a deeply spiritual and uplifting experience.
The word “kirtan” comes from the Sanskrit kirtanam, meaning “to praise or glorify,” reflecting its purpose of connecting participants with the divine through sound.
Traditionally, kirtan involves a call-and-response format. The leader chants a mantra or hymn, and the group repeats it or responds.
The mantras and hymns are focused on praising and invoking the divine, expressing devotion, and celebrating qualities like love, compassion, and inner peace. They’re often accompanied by instruments like the harmonium, tabla, or drums.
In today’s world, kirtan has expanded beyond religious practices, becoming a popular way to meditate, reduce stress, and foster community. Whether in temples, public halls, yoga studios, or online gatherings, kirtan offers a meaningful way to unite people through music and shared intention.
Origin & History of Kirtan
The origins of kirtan can be traced back thousands of years to the Vedic traditions of ancient India, where chanting and recitation were central to spiritual practice. In this early context, kirtan served as a way to convey sacred texts, praise the divine, and pass on spiritual teachings in an accessible and memorable form.
Over time, kirtan evolved as a core practice of Bhakti Yoga, the yoga of devotion, during the Bhakti Movement, which emerged around the 7th century CE. This movement emphasized personal devotion to deities like Krishna and Rama, and kirtan became a powerful tool for expressing love and surrender to the divine.
As kirtan spread across India, it took on regional flavors, incorporating local languages, instruments, and musical styles. Saints like Mirabai, Tulsidas, and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu popularized the practice, making it a cornerstone of devotional communities.
Beyond India, kirtan has continued to grow, reaching audiences worldwide through movements like the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and global yoga practices. Today, it transcends its religious origins, uniting people from various backgrounds in a shared celebration of spirituality and music.
Key Elements of Kirtan
Call-and-Response Singing
A lead singer chants a mantra or hymn, and the group responds, creating a dynamic and interactive musical experience.
Sacred Mantras and Hymns
The content of kirtans is usually devotional, centered around praising deities, invoking spiritual qualities, or fostering meditation.
To learn about the most popular chants used in Kirtans, check out this article, The Power of Kirtan Chants: Journey Through Sound and Devotion.
Musical Instruments
Common instruments like the harmonium, tabla, mridanga, and kartals accompany the singing, enhancing the rhythm and melody.
Community Participation
Kirtan is a collective experience, emphasizing connection and shared energy among participants.
Repetition and Simplicity
The repetitive nature of the chants makes them easy to follow, allowing participants to focus inward and enter a meditative state.
Spiritual Intention
Beyond music, kirtan serves as a form of devotion or meditation, fostering a sense of peace, joy, and connection with the divine.
Typical Structure of Kirtan Sessions
A typical kirtan session begins with a moment of silence or an invocation chant to set a sacred and focused tone.
The leader initiates call-and-response chanting, where participants repeat mantras or hymns, often accompanied by instruments like the harmonium, tabla, or drums.
The session starts slowly and builds energy, gradually increasing in tempo and intensity until it reaches a joyful crescendo. After this peak, the chanting and music slow down, transitioning into a calming, meditative state.
The session concludes with a final chant, a moment of gratitude or silence, and an opportunity for participants to connect and reflect, creating a sense of community and shared spiritual upliftment.
Types of Kirtan
There are many different types of kirtan styles that reflect its rich traditions and adaptability. Some of the most well-known include Bhakti Kirtan, Mantra Kirtan, Sikh Kirtan, and Contemporary Kirtan.
Bhakti Kirtan focuses on devotional singing, celebrating deities like Krishna or Shiva, while Mantra Kirtan emphasizes the meditative repetition of sacred mantras such as “Hare Krishna” or “Om Namah Shivaya.” This mantra style is most popular world-wide because its simple, repetitive structure makes it accessible to devotees and newcomers alike.
Sikh Kirtan, central to Sikh worship, involves hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib sung in classical ragas. Contemporary or Fusion Kirtan blends traditional chants with modern music genres like jazz or rock.
Benefits of Kirtan
Reduces Stress
The rhythmic chanting and melodies can calm the nervous system, promoting relaxation.
Increases Joy
Singing in a group releases endorphins, uplifting mood and fostering happiness.
Calms the Mind
The repetitive chanting helps quiet mental chatter, making it easier to enter a meditative state. It brings focus to the mind, allowing it to concentrate on the present moment.
Deepens Devotion
Kirtan fosters a sense of closeness to the divine through repetitive chanting and sacred music.
Emotional Release
Kirtan provides a safe outlet for expressing emotions, helping participants feel lighter and more balanced.
Improves Breathing
Chanting enhances deep and rhythmic breathing, improving lung capacity and oxygen flow.
Builds Relationships
Singing together creates a sense of unity and belonging, strengthening bonds within a group.
Promotes Inclusion
Kirtan welcomes participants from all backgrounds, fostering a sense of shared purpose. You don’t need musical skills or prior experience to participate, making it a practice anyone can enjoy.
Famous Kirtan Leaders
There are so many incredible and talented kirtan artists. Here are some of the most popular recognized worldwide.
Krishna Das
Often called the “Rockstar of Yoga,” Krishna Das is one of the most famous Western kirtan artists. He blends traditional Indian melodies with contemporary influences, making kirtan accessible to a global audience.
Known for his soulful renditions of chants like “Om Namah Shivaya” and the Hare Krishna mantra, his music has inspired millions.
Krishna Das has also been nominated for a Grammy, solidifying his impact on devotional music worldwide.
Jai Uttal
Jai Uttal is a Grammy-nominated musician and kirtan artist who seamlessly fuses Indian devotional music with Western styles.
His innovative approach combines traditional kirtan elements with genres like jazz, reggae, and rock, creating a unique sound. Jai Uttal’s heartfelt performances and spiritual depth have made him a leading figure in global kirtan communities.
Snatam Kaur
Snatam Kaur is a celebrated kirtan singer rooted in Sikh traditions, known for her angelic voice and deeply meditative music. Her chants, often in Gurmukhi and English, aim to inspire peace and spiritual connection.
Songs like “Ong Namo” and “Long Time Sun” have touched the hearts of people across the globe, making her a beacon of devotional music.
Radhanath Swami
A spiritual teacher and leader in the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), Radhanath Swami is also a renowned kirtan practitioner.
His sessions, often centered around the Hare Krishna mantra, aim to inspire devotion and spiritual awakening. Beyond music, he has written best-selling books that explore the path of devotion and spirituality.
Deva Premal and Miten
This husband-and-wife duo has brought kirtan to mainstream global audiences with their meditative and soothing chants. Combining Sanskrit mantras with contemporary melodies, their music has become a staple in yoga studios and meditation circles worldwide.
Their works, like “Gayatri Mantra,” are known for promoting healing and mindfulness.
How to Participate in Kirtan
Look for local kirtan gatherings at yoga studios, spiritual centers, or community events. Many sessions are also available online, making it easy to join from anywhere.
Krishna Das hosts free online kirtan and satsang sessions every Thursday. They include chanting and discussions, fostering a sense of community. It’s a great starting point for anyone interested in Kirtan.
Tips for Your First Kirtan Session
Immerse in the Music
Enjoy the rhythm and melody of the instruments, such as harmonium, tabla, or kartals, which guide the flow of the chants. Feel free to clap or sway with the music.
Let Go of Self-Consciousness
Kirtan is about connection, not performance, so don’t worry about singing perfectly. The focus is on the shared experience and spiritual intention.
Engage at Your Comfort Level
Whether you chant loudly, softly, or simply listen, participate in a way that feels authentic and comfortable to you.
Reflect After the Session
Many kirtans end with a moment of silence or gratitude. Use this time to reflect on the experience and connect with the community.
FAQ
Do I need to be religious to participate in kirtan?
No, it’s open to people of all backgrounds. While it has roots in spiritual traditions, many participate for its calming and community-building benefits.
Do I need musical skills to join a kirtan session?
Not at all! It’s about participation, not performance. You can chant, clap, or simply listen and enjoy the experience.
How long does a kirtan session last?
A typical session can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the group and setting.
What mantras are typically sung in kirtan?
Common kirtan chants include the Hare Krishna mantra, “Om Namah Shivaya,” and the Gayatri Mantra, though the chants vary by tradition and setting.
Is kirtan the same as meditation?
Kirtan is a form of active meditation that uses music and chanting to focus the mind and cultivate spiritual awareness.
Can children join kirtan?
Absolutely! Kirtan is inclusive and welcomes participants of all ages and experience levels.
This post explored the question: What is Kirtan?
Have you tried kirtan, or are you curious to join your first session? Share your thoughts, questions, or experiences in the comments below!
