What is “Sankirtana-yajna”?

[Bhava dasa (ACBSP)]

Sankirtana-yajna is the congregational chanting of the holy names of God, particularly in the tradition of bhakti-yoga as emphasized by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (15th–16th century). It is considered the most effective spiritual practice (yajna) for the current age, Kali Yuga, according to Vedic scriptures like the Bhagavata Purana and Bhagavad Gita.

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Key Aspects of Sankirtana-Yajna:
1. Chanting the Holy Names – Typically involves the repetition of the Hare Krishna mantra (Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare / Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare).
2. Group Participation – It is performed collectively, often accompanied by musical instruments like the mridanga (Indian drum) and kartals (cymbals).
3. Spiritual Purification – It is meant to cleanse the heart, increase devotion, and bring one closer to Krishna.
4. Accessible to All – Unlike other yajnas (fire sacrifices), Sankirtana-yajna requires no elaborate rituals, wealth, or specific qualifications—anyone can participate.


Scriptural Basis:
• Bhagavata Purana (12.3.51): “In the age of Kali, the only means of deliverance is chanting the holy name of the Lord. There is no other way, no other way, no other way.”
• Chaitanya Mahaprabhu promoted Sankirtana as the yuga-dharma (the prescribed duty for this age).

Modern Influence:
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), founded by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, has popularized Sankirtana worldwide through Harinam Sankirtana (public chanting) and book distribution as a form of spreading spiritual knowledge.