Indian Classical Music And Sikh Kirtan by Gobind Singh Mansukhani (M.A., LL.B, Ph.D.) © 1982 Kirtan and the Congregation |
| Kirtan and the Congregation The performance of kirtan, though possible individually or in isolation, is not encouraged. The Gurus advocated the performance of kirtan in congregation. It is an indication of divine grace that people gather together to participate in the kirtan. The congregation is generally held in the Gurudwara premises or in special enclosures covered with canopies on occasions of important Gurpurb celebrations. According to the Sikh faith, God is present in the congregation. According to the Sikh faith, God is present in the congregation. Bhai Gurdas is all praise for the holy congregation and says: “The holy congregation is the Mansarovar lake; the Sikhs are the swans. They digest the diamond-like words of the Guru through kirtan” [31] It is said that kirtan done in chorus by those present in the temple is like the appeal of a deputation of the devout to God. Such a supplication is generally approved by the Lord. Moreover, it eliminates the feeling of duality in the individual, because he realises the Divinity in each member of the Sangat. |