Mantras and Kirtan

Kirtan is chanting (singing) with the purpose of opening the heart, of generating a sacred space of sound. As we lead kirtan, Sanskrit mantras are repeated in a call and response format. Sanskrit is an ancient Indian language, often called the source or foundation for many other languages. But what are Sanskrit mantras and why do they form the essence of kirtan?

Mantras represent various aspects of the one universal energy and are designed with the purpose of resonating within your heart. For instance, Sanskrit mantras focusing on chid shakti (the creative energy of the universe, often referred to as the Divine Mother) will direct devotion towards this wonderful aspect of life.

It’s said that the vibrational frequencies of the mantras themselves have a power that channels heart and mind in a certain direction. Just like musical structure of the ‘blues’ or ‘rock and roll’ evoke very different energies, so mantras are meant to bring about a peaceful, heartful space.

The Mutka Kirtan has deliberately chosen to exclusively employ Sanskrit mantras in their chants. While it’s also wonderful to have English lyrics (which in themselves can be deep, meaningful and heartful), the intent with only Sanskrit mantras is to bypass the mind and go straight to the heart. Of course, there’s definitelly not a wrong or right approach to leading chanting. It’s really a matter of inner guidance as to what seems right for each kirtan group.

That’s why there’s so much wonderful variety among the countless Western kirtans that have emerged over the past several decades. A Western kirtan blends Sanskrit mantras within the framework of Western music (for the large majority of groups) as the relatively new artform and devotional practice evolves.

The Mukta Kirtan is part of this Western kirtan movement - inspired by so many of the superb Kirtan groups that have come before - to present its own unique chants during its kirtans.