The Yoga of Kirtan: Conversations on the Sacred Art of Chanting
Title: The Yoga of Kirtan: Conversations on the Sacred Art of Chanting
Author: Steven Rosen (Satyaraja Dasa)
Publisher: Folk Books
Publication Date: January 1, 2008
Language: English
Format: Paperback
Pages: 495; black-and-white photos
This book features 21 in-depth conversations with renowned kirtan artists from around the globe, delving into the philosophy, culture, and traditions of kirtan—a devotional music practice rooted in India for centuries. Satyaraja Dasa interviews celebrated kirtan performers such as Karnamrita Dasi, Shyam Dasa, Vaiyasaki Dasa, Yamuna Devi, Sri Prahlad, Dave Stringer, and Krishna Das, exploring their journeys, inspirations, and perspectives on singing the divine names.
With his profound understanding of the subject, Satyaraja crafts these interviews into an engaging narrative, accompanied by an introduction explaining kirtan's origins and spiritual essence. Readers may feel inspired to sing or dance along as they immerse themselves in the vibrant stories and insights shared.
Overview and Content
Format: The 484-page book consists of intimate, heart-to-heart conversations between Rosen and prominent contemporary kirtan leaders, exploring their personal journeys, spiritual practices, and insights into the chanting process.
Focus: It delves into the history, musical dimensions, and emotional depth of kirtan, which is framed as a form of Bhakti yoga—the path of love and devotion.
Included Artists: The book features interviews with well-known kirtan masters, including Krishna Das, Jai Uttal, Deva Premal and Miten, Snatam Kaur, Vaiyasaki Das, Ragani, and David Newman.
Themes: It covers the origins of kirtan in India, its rise in the West, traditional instruments (harmonium, khol, kartals), and the philosophy behind chanting the divine names.
Companion: The book often includes a companion CD with over 70 minutes of kirtan music.
About the Author
Steven J. Rosen is a renowned Vaishnava scholar, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Vaishnava Studies, and associate editor of Back to Godhead magazine.
