Kirtan

(“repeating”) A type of devotional
singing or chanting of short verses
which are usually different renditions of
the divine name. This is often done in a
367
Kirtan
call and response fashion—the leader
sings one line, and the listeners repeat it.
The primary emphasis in this rite is the
repetition of the divine name. As the
identifying mark of the divinity, the
Name is believed to contain the divine
power, benefiting those who hear it as
well as those who speak it. Kirtan is
especially popular among the devotees
(bhakta) of the god Vishnu, who historically have put greater stress on the theology of the Name. Kirtan is a common
activity during congregational meetings
known as satsang, the “company of
good people,” believed to have beneficial spiritual effects on those who take
part in them.