The Art and Science of Sacred Chanting

Thousands of years ago the rishi (seers) of ancient India created a culture wherein religion, art and science thrived in harmony. Music was known to be a divine art interwoven with the sciences of sound, psychology and mathematics. It was partially intended for pleasure and entertainment, but primarily intended to assist in our quest for Self-realization. The human voice was recognized to be the original and perfect instrument of sound. Nād Brahma, the sacred sound vibration, was recognized to have a potent effect on our entire being. The rishi discovered music’s effect on the body, emotions and consciousness. They deciphered various melodies and rhythms that could re-create the effects of the seasons and times of day. Various Raga were created to paint a sonic picture or connect to an emotion (rasa) or state of being (bhava) such as tranquility, love, happiness, courage. Connected to other yogic sciences and sadhana, the word for musician became bhagavatar, one who sings the praises of the Supreme.

Guided by experienced teachers and followers of this sadhana, we will explore the personal experience of sound and voice through learning and chanting Sanskrit verses, simple raga melody, and the devotional practice of Nāma Sankirtan—the musical repetition of the sacred names of the Divine. We will touch on the integration of bhakti yoga with raja yoga, on the internal and external experience of sacred music, and on the blending of devotion and concentration.

The Experience:

• No musical experience is required for this retreat.
• Learn yogic and Indian vocal fundamentals of how to use your voice for Sanskrit chanting and singing
• Learn a sacred Sanskrit verse with correct pronunciation and vocalizing
• Experience the esoteric nature of sound and devotion
• Learn and experience sankirtan as an effective form of yoga sadhana
• Learn basics of India’s sacred music as it applies to raga (melodic scale) and tala (rhythmic cycles)

Testimonials:

“Naren is leading Western seekers to India’s sacred music in the most authentic way. And those of us who are Indian are deeply moved by his authenticity and bhava. I don’t see Naren as a musician—I see him as a yogi, because he is steeped in what he learned from his Gurus and in living a truly yogic life.” –Gita Desai, Film Director of Yoga Unveiled, Raga Unveiled, Ayurveda Unveiled 

“Coming from India, I had attended many Pujas and Kirtans before. The experience with Narenji and Lopamudraji was beyond everything I had experienced before. They have a very strong knowledge of Mantras and are well versed in Hindu practices. They explained the meaning of all Sanskrit verses in a very simple manner to everyone. All of us were deeply touched.” -Dorav Kumar, San Diego CA

“When I recall Naren and Lopamudra’s face in my mind I instantly feel their love, joy and music.  As a novice I approached their retreats with some trepidation. They made me feel welcome, comfortable, able to explore and question. Their puja and chanting was a deeply healing experience, which even now these few years later brings on tears and love. I begin and end each day now with sacred chant. Thank you.” -Lisa Sandin, Detroit MI

“Naren and Lopamudra are remarkable human beings. Their pujas and chanting are beautiful and bring to life and embody the essence of India’s storied Yoga traditions. You can feel their decades of practice and passion for sharing this knowledge.” – Dr. Eden Goldman, Director Loyola Marymount University’s Yoga And The Healing Sciences Program

“Naren is providing a bridge between the Classical Indian ascetic and Western kirtan. His pronunciation, musical refinement and bhav, make him a rich resource for all kirtan lovers to sink into. He is doing the kirtan world a service.” -Ty Burhoe, Founder, Tala Records, accomplished tabla musician

“Whether leading kirtan, giving a talk on an aspect of Sanatana Dharma, doing a puja ceremony, Naren is approachable, kind and quick with a smile.  Lopamudra’s chanting creates an environment that calls forth divine presence in some aspect. Their ability to ‘make known’ that Divine presence and share it with others is deeply rooted in their own lifelong practice.” -Nicholas Oscoff, film director and producer

Tentative Schedule