This is a resource library, not a teaching space. Vedic chant is tremendously beautiful, deeply powerful, and a gift to humanity. Vedic chant is recognized as a world heritage tradition in need of protection by UNESCO. It is regarded as the source and ultimate authority of all Vedic teachings (Vedanta, Yoga, Buddhism, Ayurveda, Jainism, and Mindfulness included) by centuries of South Asian teaching. We must hold these teachings with a little respect. Part of that respect is in recognizing that in order to chant, one needs to be taught by an initiated teacher. I strongly recommend a 1:1 conversation to learn more about the adyayanam (learning) process and have your questions answered.

Not all chants used in yoga are Vedic chant. There are dozens of invocations and closing prayers that are not Veda. The Yoga Sūtras are not Veda. The Bhagavad Gītā is not Veda. Singing, such as Kirtan and Bhajan, is not Veda. Guru mantra - or a secret transmission of a personal mantra that is given to a student during initiation - is a Tantrika practice and not Vedic mantra. Part of what a student learns over time is the difference between Veda and śastra, the rules of chanting Veda, and the living application of śastra (wisdom teachings).

I will slowly build this resource out. I originally learned within the Krishnamacharya-Desikachar lineage. These days I am studying intensely with Shantala Sriramaiah within the Challakere brothers lineage. She is graciously moving me beyond having a personal chanting practice to the capacity to teach others.

 

Invocations