Bhajan
The word Bhajan (भजन) is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Bhaj’, meaning to belong to, to serve, or to honor. Unlike the formal structure of Stotrams, a Bhajan is a free-flowing expression of love (Prem) and surrender (Prapatti). Whether it is the soulful compositions of Meera Bai or the rhythmic chants of Kabir, Bhajans bridge the gap between the seeker and the deity through the universal language of music.
- All Posts
- Aarti
- Bhajan
- Chalisa
- Stotram
- Stuti
- Back
- Shiva
- Hanuman
- Shri Radha
- Durga
- Lakshmi
- Back
- Ganesh Ji
- Maha Lakshmi
- Lord Vishnu
- Durga Maa
- Shiva
- Back
- Krishna Bhajan
- Back
- Shri Radha
- Back
- Shri Ram
Satguru Mai Teri Patang is a devotional bhajan rooted in the imagery of a kite and its string, known as a dor. It expresses the...
Shri Ram Janki Lyrics: Shri Ram Janki baithe hai mere seene mein, is a deeply devotional composition that expresses unwavering faith and surrender. Sung from Hanuman...
Achyutam Keshavam Lyrics in English: More than just a bhajan, Achyutam Keshavam is a heartfelt expression of love and devotion towards Lord Krishna and Lord...
The Spiritual Essence of Bhajan Kirtan
Bhajna Kirtan expresses devotion through sound, rhythm and collective remembrance. It is a form of devotion without any complex rituals or rigid discipline, where devotees simply express their heartfelt bhav, making it one of the most accessible spiritual practise, especially in Kaliyuaga.
In temples across India, evening Kirtans take place every day. Sometimes a Bhajan Mandali leads these sessions. Other times, devotees come together to sing in shared devotion.
Core Spiritual Significance
- Foundation of Nava-vidha Bhakti: Bhajans form the heart of Nava-vidha Bhakti, the nine forms or ways of devotion to the divine as detailed in the Srimad Bhagavatam and Ramcharitmanas. Shravanam, which is listening to the Lord’s glories, stories and divine pastimes and Kirtanam, singing the name of the Lord with joy, help devotees.
- Easiest path in Kaliyuga: In today’s mind, when minds are easily distracted and restless, bhajan kirtan offers a simple yet powerful way to connect with the divine. One does not need deep spiritual knowledge, only sincerity and presence.
- The Power of Sound: Sound (Nada) is considered the first manifestation of the divine. Singing Bhajans is a form of Nada Yoga, where the frequency of the music helps align the chakras and quiet the restless mind.
Communal Harmony and Unity
- Breaking Social Barriers: During the Bhakti movement, saints used Bhajans to dissolve divisions of caste, class and education. Everyone gathered as equals in devotion.
- collective elevation: Group singing amplifies emotional and spiritual energy, allowing individuals to experience unity through shared sound and intention.
Different Styles in Bhajan
Bhajan expresses devotion in different ways. This reflects the various paths through which seekers connect to the divine. Broadly, there are two major styles: Nirguna and Saguna. These are discussed briefly as follows:
- Nirguni Bhajans: these focus on the Formless and attribute-less Divine (Brahman). Instead of describing a deity’s appearance or story, these bhajans turn the seeker inward. They speak about the soul’s journey and the temporary nature of the material world. Through their simple yet profound language, they challenge attachment, ego, and illusion (maya). Sanits like Kabir popularised this style.
- Saguna bhajans: they celebrate the divine within form, qualities and personality. They lovingly describe the deeds, virtues and leelas of deities such as Krishna, Rama and Durga. These bhajans awaken feelings of love and surrender. Poets like Surdas and Tulsidas enriched this tradition by expressing devotion through storytelling, music and heartfelt emotion.
Nirguni and Saguna Bhajans together demonstrate that devotion can move inward to connect with the formless truth or outward toward a loving personal deity. This approach allows seekers to pick the path that feels most true to their nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to the Vedas, Bhajan is not only confined to singing. It means offering oneself to the divine with love, focus and devotion. Derived from the root “bhaj”, it signifies sharing, participation, and deep attachment, where the mind turns away from worldly distractions and aligns fully with the divine.
No, Bhajans can be listened to or sung at any time; what matters most is mindful presence, complete surrender, and a sincere bhakti bhav.
Bhajan is calm and personal, often sung slowly, while Kirtan is lively and group-based, where people sing devotional songs or bhajans together.