kirtan

    Kirtan is a form of chant. The very word kirtan comes from sanskrit meaning chanting in praise of some one glorious. as such this form of music is saturated with selflessness, where the chanter or a musician is not in the center, or the object of the performance but a subject.

    In ancient Indian Drupal system of chant performers (monks) would chant the names of the Supreme by which they attained spiritual emancipation. This is very similar concept seen in Georgian chants in Europe.

    The whole concept of kirtan is to redirect attention from the chanter and focus on the Supreme. One of the powerful mantras inaugurated in early 60s and well accepted in the western world is mantra hare krishna hare krishna krisha krishna hare hare, hare rama hare rama rama rama hare hare. Beside the very powerful spiritual influence it has the subtle healing capabilities. This mantra chanted with devotion is very powerful, as it is said it can penetrate through the layers of the universe and bring one to the highest plane of consciousness, called Krishna Consciousness. This in return helps one practically live well balanced and harmonious life, both with the environment and oneself.

    Every mantra chanted in prise of the Supreme can elevate one and bring about joy. One can experiance it by chanting or listening. However the most powerful effect is obtained by chanting in a group and is called sankirtant.

kirtan and my music

    So some one may ask why are you not chanting a kirtan with your instrument. My answer to this is - the holly mantras, the Holy Names, the chants are already pure and full of transcendental beauty. None human efforts can embellish them or "make them more beautiful". My music is a silent kirtan, played after the inspiration invoked by the kirtan.