The following is a definition written by Acharyadeva in response to a question regarding the meaning of kirtan.

“When the pure soul sings, we call it ‘kirtan.’ Kirtan is liberating, because we are not singing as male or female bodies, old or young bodies, black, brown, or white bodies. We joyfully sing as pure and equal souls, reconnecting to the infinite bliss and beauty of our Source, Krishna.

As we offer pure hearts and souls to Krishna, our eternal friend, Krishna welcomes us back to our eternal Home. That is kirtan.”

-Hridayananda das Goswami
January 13, 2013