The Cult Of Music In Hinduism

Only when you enter a bhajan function or kirtan gathering you realise how important music is in Hinduism. As they say, Hinduism is not a religion but a way of life. And music is a natural expression of life. That is why, worshipping of God is also done through music in Hinduism. For Hindus, singing and music is an intensely religious act. There are many ways in which, music forms a cult in Hinduism. Here are some of the main forms of music associated with Hinduism.

Forms Of Music In Hinduism: 

(i) Aarti: An aarti is a rhythmic song sung while you are praying to God. Aarti basically refers to a process where you take a source of fire around the idol of the God you are praying to. Along with the circular motion of revolving the fire around the statue of God, a song is sung. The people standing usually give chorus to the aarti and clap their hands in union. This process promotes a sense of belonging in the gathering.

(ii) Bhajans: Bhajans are usually sung in praise of a God to invoke a deity. Bhajans and kirtans are usually done on special occasions like Navratri. Sometimes, people sing bhanjans to pass time at night when they are keeping awake. Bhanjans too have the same purpose as aartis; they promote a sense of community.

(iii) Ragas: Ragas are part of classical music. Gods have their own favourite ragas devoted to them. There is also a special raga devoted to each season and good. The Goddess of music Saraswati presides over these ragas.

(iv) Ballads: Ballads in Hinduism are much like the ballads of old English poetry. They are usually sung in praise of a deity. In Hinduism, ballads are usually dedicated to particular avatars of gods. For example, Vishnu will hymns in his honour but his avatars Ram and Krishna has ballads referring to their glories. These are some of the forms in which music is integrated into Hinduism. Which of these is your favourite form of religious music?

Courtesy: Bold Sky