This year the Kirtan Yoga Fest will be from 2 pm to 6 pm at Fuerst Park in Novi (10 Mile Road and Taft Road). World renowned kirtaniyas from New York, Vrindavan India and home grown talent from Detroit will be performing ecstatic kirtans that will energize the body, free the mind and feed the soul. The outdoor setting of Fuerst Park with rolling hills and plenty of shade will add to the bliss of the first ever Kirtan Yoga Fest at the Festival of Chariots. Be sure to stop by and experience the power of kirtan yoga.
WHAT IS KIRTAN?
Kirtan is a form of devotional singing and chanting originating from India. It is a form of Bhakti Yoga (yoga of devotion) and has the power to open the heart. The singing is accompanied by musical instruments and rhythmic drumming and the audience is encouraged to participate by singing/chanting, clapping and dancing. In its heartfelt expression kirtan can induce profound states of meditation, bliss and ecstasy.
In a simple word, Kirtan is relief. It has been described as the beating of the heart of the soul. For the twenty-first century person living in the west, life is all about the pursuit of happiness. We are guaranteed life and liberty, but kirtan is the means and end toward achieving the happiness that people are searching for. Through the chanting of the names of God, kirtan awakens the soul to its natural position, connects with God, clears the heart of all the distractions that can stress one living in this high tech age, and at the very least, make a person feel better about their day through the wonderful music.
Kirtan is not exclusive to experienced yogis or those from India. Anyone can join in at any time and joyfully sing along, clap their hands and become a key musician to this age-old art form. We strive to awaken the entire world to Kirtan. It can be performed anywhere that someone is willing to do it. A willingness to perform the Kirtan is the only requirement. Kirtan is a scientific study in the pursuit of happiness. If by the end of a thirty minute kirtan, one feels happier, then it has been a success.