What is Kirtan?
Kirtan is simply a practice of call and response chanting of divine names. Singing the mantras or chants is a way for people to connect with their inner needs, community, spirit, and to have lots of fun. At its core, kirtan is a devotional (Bhakti) practice designed to bring us closer to our hearts and Universal Spirit. Simply being together and singing the divine names can have a cleansing and healing effect.
The chants come from a Hindu tradition, but it is not about being Hindu or believing anything in advance. It is only about the experience. No advance knowledge necessary, just show up, sit, and sing.
The best way to learn about Kirtan is to attend and sing. That’s it. Close your eyes, listen to the mantra, and sing it back. The worst thing that can happen is nothing, but odds are pretty good that you will feel more connected to your heart, to Spirit, and to those around you.
Ready to give it a try?
Meet Michael, Joy, and Jonny
Michael and Joy have been singing Kirtan for over 10 years and they’ve only recently stepped into the role of facilitating Kirtan in the community. They met Jonny at a local yoga studio where he sings Kirtan during some of the yoga practices. They all felt a calling to share their practice with the community to offer a place of connection.
Third Friday of each month at 7:00 PM
Suggested donation: $20 (cash or Venmo – nobody is turned away)
Important things to consider:
- You can bring a bolster, pillow, or something comfy to use for sitting on the floor or sit in chairs provided (Michael, Joy, and Jonny will sit on the floor),
- No need to dress up,
- Bring a water bottle to hydrate between each chant,
- Send questions to Michael at jlhorntvedt@hotmail.com with Olalla Kirtan in the subject line,
- Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.