Harinam Sankirtan

Harinam Sankirtan is a devotional practice in Hinduism that involves the collective chanting or singing of the holy names of God, particularly the names of Lord Krishna or Lord Rama. The word "Harinam" refers to the name of Hari (a name of Lord Krishna), and "Sankirtan" refers to the congregational chanting or singing of these sacred names. Harinam Sankirtan is a key practice in the Bhakti (devotional) tradition of Hinduism, focusing on the power of chanting or singing God's name as a means to attain spiritual purification, inner peace, and liberation.

Significance of Harinam Sankirtan

The practice of Harinam Sankirtan is based on the belief that the repetition of God's name has profound spiritual benefits, regardless of the devotee's level of knowledge or background. The chanting or singing of the divine names is considered a form of worship and an act of surrender to God, allowing devotees to experience divine presence and grace.

  1. Spiritual Purification:
    Harinam Sankirtan is believed to purify the heart and mind, removing impurities such as lust, anger, and greed. By focusing on the sound of God's holy name, devotees can cleanse themselves of negative emotions and thoughts.

  2. Attainment of Divine Bliss:
    Chanting or singing the names of God is said to elevate the consciousness of the devotee, leading to a state of spiritual ecstasy and bliss. The repetition of divine names helps to cultivate devotion (bhakti) and love for God.

  3. Connection with the Divine:
    Through Harinam Sankirtan, devotees feel a deep connection with God. According to many Bhakti traditions, God is present in His holy name, and by chanting His name, one can invite God's presence into their heart and life.

  4. A Simple and Accessible Form of Worship:
    One of the key aspects of Harinam Sankirtan is its simplicity. Unlike other forms of worship that may require elaborate rituals or complex study of scriptures, chanting the holy names can be done by anyone, regardless of age, social status, or level of education.

  5. Promoting Peace and Unity:
    Harinam Sankirtan is often performed in groups, creating a sense of unity and community among devotees. It fosters a spirit of togetherness, as people from all walks of life come together to chant in unison. This collective practice promotes peace and harmony within society.

The Tradition and Practice of Harinam Sankirtan

Harinam Sankirtan is an integral part of many devotional movements and is particularly associated with the Bhakti movement. It is most commonly practiced in the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition, founded by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in the 15th century. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu is regarded as a central figure in the revival and popularization of Harinam Sankirtan, emphasizing its role in the spiritual journey.

  1. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and the Golden Age of Sankirtan:
    Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a saint and spiritual leader, propagated the practice of chanting the Hare Krishna mantra as the most effective means of attaining spiritual liberation in this age (known as Kali Yuga). His teachings emphasized that the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra could bring about spiritual transformation and direct communion with the divine. The mantra is:

    Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare
    Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare

    Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and his followers, known as the Gaudiya Vaishnavas, held congregational chanting (Sankirtan) in public spaces, such as streets and open areas, as a way to spread the love of God and make spiritual practices accessible to all people. This became known as Sankirtan Yajna (the sacrifice of chanting).

  2. ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness):
    The ISKCON movement, also known as the Hare Krishna movement, founded by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada in the 1960s, continues the tradition of Harinam Sankirtan. ISKCON devotees regularly perform Harinam Sankirtan in temples, public spaces, and even on the streets, often in the form of kirtans (devotional singing of the holy names). In ISKCON, the practice is considered one of the most effective means of cultivating Krishna consciousness and bringing about spiritual awakening.

  3. The Congregational Nature:
    Harinam Sankirtan is most powerful when performed in a group, as it involves collective chanting in a harmonious and rhythmic manner. Participants often sing in unison, accompanied by musical instruments like mrdanga (drums) and kartals (cymbals). This creates an atmosphere of joy, devotion, and unity.

    • Kirtan is a key part of Harinam Sankirtan, where devotees sing hymns or mantras in praise of God.
    • Bhajan refers to a more devotional style of singing that may be done solo or in smaller groups.

  4. Public Processions and Festivals:
    Harinam Sankirtan is frequently performed in public processions, especially during religious festivals such as Rath Yatra, Janmashtami, and Gaura Purnima. These processions, known as Harinam Sankirtan Yatras, are held to spread the holy names of God to the broader public. Devotees walk through the streets, chanting, dancing, and playing instruments, creating a joyous and spiritual atmosphere.

The Power of the Holy Name

According to Vaishnavism, chanting the holy names of God is a practice that transcends the material world and can help devotees connect directly with the divine. The power of Harinam Sankirtan lies in its spiritual vibration. The names of God are considered to be non-different from God Himself, and through the practice of Sankirtan, devotees experience direct contact with the divine energy.

  1. Mantra Power:
    The Hare Krishna mantra (or other mantras in different traditions) is said to have a special power to purify the heart and mind. It is believed that chanting these names purges one of material attachments and helps awaken the divine consciousness within.

  2. The Effect of Sound Vibration:
    In Hindu philosophy, sound is considered a powerful medium for spiritual transformation. The vibrations of the sacred mantras, when chanted with devotion, can purify the soul and elevate consciousness. The practice of Sankirtan is, therefore, not just a ritual; it is considered a form of divine connection through sound.

Global Spread of Harinam Sankirtan

Harinam Sankirtan has transcended the borders of India and has become popular worldwide, especially through the efforts of ISKCON and other Bhakti-based movements. In cities across the globe, devotees engage in public chanting and singing of the Hare Krishna mantra, bringing the practice to people of all cultures and backgrounds. Harinam Sankirtan is also known for promoting spiritual awakening and peace, as it creates a collective experience of joy, unity, and devotion.