Those scenes remain with my fond memories. As a traditional practice, my mother took me to devotional gatherings where ‘kirtan’ used to take place. These were many long pleasant hours; sometimes, families arranged them as an all night affair. Under one roof, the group singing produced a magnificent acoustic; people clapped and swayed – it was a feast of inviting notes which I began to enjoy from a very early age. In a way, that was the beginning which plunged me deeper into a state to taste music and feel the connection with God. During these singing sessions, every time I saw my mother’s radiant face, it seemed propelled by purest devotion for our Creator. With a hint of a slight smile, raised eyebrows and tears trickling from her closed eyes – the grand lady was in another world! It is not a surprise that I show the same traits! and I too can frame effortlessly the same mood of spiritual joy. Chanting into their simple music, devotional lyrics have always been close to my heart. Every letter that forms a part of these sacred words, opens up channels to rejuvenate me. I can say that the experience guarantees intoxication!

Hare Krishna Govind Harey Murari
Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva

Jai Jai Ram, Jai Jai Ram
Jai Jai Ram Ram Ram
Jai Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram

Harey Ram Harey Ram Harey Ram Ram Ram
Harey Ram Jai Jai Ram Harey Ram

Mukand Madhavi Govind Bol
Keshav Madhav Hari Hari Bol

Jai Guru Jai Guru Jai Guru Jai
Jai Guru Jai Guru Jai Guru Jai

Jai Baba Jai Baba Jai Baba Jai
Jai Baba Jai Baba Jai Baba Jai

Jai Mata Jai Mata Jai Mata Jai
Jai Mata Jai Mata Jai Mata Jai

Glossary.
‘Kirtan’ is a form of devotional chanting and is a very important feature of ‘bhakti’ yoga – the yoga of devotion. ‘Bhakti’ yoga is considered the easiest and the most effective path to attain ‘moksha’, or liberation.