Definition: The word kirtan means adoration, or praising, of the divine. In Sikhism kirtan refers especially to singing of praise as expressed in the hymns and compositions of Sikh scripture. Adoration expressed in song is considered by Sikhs to be the highest form of devotion, unsurpassed, the way to overcome the effect of ego and escape mortality.
Traditional raag - The classical musical score in which hymns are composed.
Folk tunes - Call and repeat style of singing verses without extras or improvisation.
Akhand kirtan - Unbroken adoration singing in continual praise.
Amrit kirtan - Singing hymns of immortal nectar.
Gurbani kirtan - Singing hymns of Sikh scripture.
Nagar kirtan - Singing in a procession parading through the streets.
Rain sabaee kirtan - An all night worship service of devotional singing.
Shabad kirtan - Singing sacred hymns selected from:
In the presence of sangat, kirtan may be performed only by Sikhs:
- Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism's holy scripture.
- Dasam Granth, Compositions of Tenth Guru Gobind Singh.
- Compositions of Bhai Gurdas.
- Compositions of Bhai Nand Lal.
Pronunciation: The ki or kee of kirtan is pronounced like key.
Alternate Spellings: keertan, See Gurmukhi Spelling of Kirtan Illustrated
Examples:
"Akhandd keertan tin bhojan chooraa ||
Unbroken adoration is their food and nourishment." SGGS||236
"Dharam saal apaar dai-aar thaakur sadaa keertan gaavehae ||
In Thy incomparable house of worship, the saints ceaselessly sing in praise of thy infinite mercy, O Lord Master." Sggs||248
"Meech huttai jam te chhuttai har keertan parvaes ||
Mortality is overcome and one escapes the messenger of death while absorbed in praising the divine." SGGS||297
Peace, poise and absolute bliss are obtained, when the Lord's Praises are sung." SGGS ||400
