Top 10 Kirtan Songs to Learn on Guitar

Musica Medicina
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Kirtan is one of the most beautiful forms of medicine music. It's a devotional chanting practice from Hindu tradition based on the repetition of mantras, where everyone participates singing together. Guitar is ideal for accompanying kirtan thanks to its portability and warmth.

Here are the 10 most popular kirtan songs for guitar, ordered from easiest to most complex.

1. Om Namah Shivaya

The most fundamental mantra of the Shaivite tradition. Means "I bow to Shiva" (pure consciousness).

Typical chords: Am - G
Difficulty: Beginner

2. Hare Krishna Maha Mantra

The great 16-word mantra.

Typical chords: Am - F - G or Am - G
Difficulty: Beginner

3. Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu

"May all beings in all worlds be happy and free."

Typical chords: Am - C - G - Em
Difficulty: Beginner

4. Om Mani Padme Hum

The compassion mantra of Tibetan Buddhism.

Typical chords: Em - D - C - G
Difficulty: Beginner

5. Govinda Jaya Jaya

A joyful kirtan dedicated to Krishna as Govinda.

Typical chords: Am - Dm - E - Am
Difficulty: Beginner-Intermediate

6. Sita Ram

Invocation to Sita and Rama, sweet and meditative melody.

Typical chords: C - G - Am - F
Difficulty: Beginner

7. Shri Ram Jai Ram

A classic kirtan with a hypnotic rhythm that invites deep meditation.

Typical chords: Am - Em - Am - Dm - Am
Difficulty: Intermediate

8. Gayatri Mantra

One of the most sacred mantras in Hinduism.

Typical chords: Am - G - C - Em - Dm
Difficulty: Intermediate

9. Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

12-syllable liberation mantra dedicated to Vishnu/Krishna.

Typical chords: Em - D - C - G - Am
Difficulty: Intermediate

10. Jai Uttal - Govinda

Contemporary version popularized by Jai Uttal with world music influences.

Typical chords: Am - F - C - G - E
Difficulty: Intermediate-Advanced

Tips for playing Kirtan

  • Repetition is key — In kirtan, phrases are repeated many times. This creates the meditative effect.
  • Sing with the group — Kirtan is call and response.
  • Start slow — Most kirtans start slow and gradually build energy.
  • Use simple strumming — A basic downstroke works perfectly.
  • 432 Hz — Try tuning to 432 Hz for a warmer vibration.

Find complete chords for these and many more kirtan songs on Musica Medicina!

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