Dear Satwik,

Could you please explain to me the differnce in a bhajan and a kirtan? I am very much enjoying the music that I am hearing on the pilgrimage video. The praises to Sri Ramakrishna and Holy Mother ring in my ears throughout the day.

Yours,
Rosemary

Location: New Bern, Nc

Dear Sister, I don't know for sure, but I feel that bhajan is a devotional hymn which even a single person can sing, and it is generally paeans in praise of the Lord, glorifying Him, or singing His/Her glories, or even supplicating Him for favours both worldly and spiritual like devotion. Kirtan is generally group singing of the Lord's Name generally, also group singing about His leela, or Divine Play, generally in a temple or good place. Bhajans, individual supplications to the Divine or expressions of love for the Divine can be sung anywhere and in any condition, I feel, but Kirtan requires proper place and even music.

With regards,

Ankur

Location: New Delhi