What is Kirtan?
What is Kirtan?
Kirtan is an experience like no other. It combines sacred mantra, or spiritual words with vibrant, joyous music that lifts the soul and energizes the body. Its beauty lies in its simplicity. One leader sings the mantra, accompanied by a few instruments. After each line, the group – however large or small, respond with the same line. This call and response continues as the kirtan slowly unfolds.
Though the kirtan tradition originated in ancient India, it is no less relevant to our modern times. With the increasing demands of the average working life, kirtan is perhaps even more beneficial than ever.
In kirtan, there are no rules – you can sit or stand, or better yet, dance! You can clap or play instruments, and sing to your heart’s content. The only thing necessary is an open heart, open mind, and open ears.
For the Love of Kirtan
Dhananjaya Prabhu
“What always impresses me about Radhadesh Mellows is the sincerity of all the musicians & the listeners. And the amazing talent of all the kirtaniyas!!!!! I come away completely saturated by the Holy Name!!! I love all the ways the Holy Name can be sung & I feel more indebted to Srila Prabhupada who, if it was not for him, none of us would even have heard of the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra. Thank you Srila Prabhupada for bringing the Holy Name to the Western world”
Dhananjaya Prabhu
”A wonderful gathering of Vaishnavas from all over Europe who, being dedicated to chanting the holy name, experienced the result: greater faith, conviction and a sense of togetherness with Srila Prabhupad’s growing family“
Nitai Kirtan das, a Birmingham devotee
”It fully re-charged my spiritual batteries…AWESOME!“
The Leicester / Coventry devotees
”Spiritually energizing. Bliss, ecstasy & nectar”
Madhava Prabhu
”Leaving Radhadesh with a full and happy heart. This weekend has been intense and fruitful. Kirtans were sweet, mellow and enlivening. Thanks to all the devotees who have worked hard to make this happen and to all those who taken part in this amazing festival. KIRTAN FOREVER……“
HH Kadamba Kanana Swami
”The same kirtana Lord Caitanya performed in Mayapur in the house of Srivasa is now everywhere, all over the world, by the mercy of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupad“
Amala Harinam
”Radhadesh Mellows has been a phenomenal experience. For me, it is the perfect blend of kirtan styles and moods. Alongside so many like minded and sincere souls, sadhus and friends, it is the perfect way to start off the year and my spiritual practice with intention! Participating in this festival fulfils my soul“
Bimala
”Words can not describe Radhadesh Mellows you just need to come next year to experience it for yourself“
H.H. Sacinandana Swami
”For the lovers of the Holy Names“, „The ecstatic kirtans during the Radhadesh Mellows give everyone a unique opportunity to enter the Temple of the Heart and meet the Lord herein. The joy and inspiration the devotees always feel shows in their gleaming eyes and broad smiles: They feel the presence of the Lord through His most merciful manifestation – The Holy Names!“, „Let us thank Manu and his team for organizing such an ecstatic festival and let us not forget to support them in all ways. Let us also take the chanting home with us into our daily lives and become inspiring servants of the Holy Name. A servant of the Holy Name always, Sacinandana Swami“