Nama Sankeerthanam

When bhakti and melody mingle

·     Namasankirtanam is mutual, bhajan singing and draws crowds, and the crowds inspiring bhagavathars. The emergence of Sampradaya Bhajan as an exclusive genre is a reflection of the people's devotional and cultural taste.

·         The hallowed lineage in this tradition hails from the Sankirtana Triumvirate — comprising

1. Bhodendra Swamigal,
2. Sridhara Aiyyaval and
3. Sadguruswamy.

·  The present format of the Sampradaya Bhajan has been handed down from Sri Sadguruswamy, who travelled the length and breadth of the country to collect the prized devotional lyrics and hymns from all over India.

·    If a keenness to delve in Bhakti Rasa that ushered in the practice of singing devotion-soaked bhajans at the end of recitals, it also created a niche for Sampradaya Bhajan.

·      There is Vedic proof of the efficacy of chanting the name of the Lord to attain salvation; and the Vishnu Purana asserts that in Kali Yuga, Nama Sankirtanam is the best and sure route for salvation. Adi Sankara accorded the highest status to chanting of the names of the Lord, calling it Ahimsa Yagna. Here, the audience gets a chance to participate in the recital

·     It is a case of mutual influence, when bhajan singing draws crowds, and crowds inspire bhajan singing. The audience are moved by the bhakti-melody combination of the bhajans.

·     In fact, chanting of divine names, sacred phrases and specific mantras can awaken the spiritual energy within. The resonance of group singing is a powerful force, capable of creating a strong feeling of community and connectedness. Many have found relief from depression and trauma by attending these group-singing sessions.

·         Namasankirtanam is a sure way to focus one's thoughts on the Almighty. It is equivalent to meditation and spreads positive vibrations. Connoisseurs of classical tradition acknowledge the power of the soulful and tuneful rendering of the lyrics by the Bhajan groups.

·    Guru keertanams, Kannada dasakritis, Maharashtra abhangs, Hindi bhajans, Divyanama sankeertanams, Radha Kalyanam, dolotsavam all form a part of nama sankeerthanam.

·       The exponents and the audience are treated to a unique blend of the devotional component (in the form of Bhava worship) and the inherent classical melody of the compositions of the inspired saint-poets. The extensive repertoire of songs invokes the gurus and various deities.

·         However, one has to appreciate the combined efforts of the exponents of the tradition and the organisers who have enabled this tradition to move from its modest beginnings in temples and join the mainstream.

·         One is referring to the namasankirtana events that are being regularly held and which have an eager audience.