Vedic Chanting

What is Vedic Chanting?

The Vedas are a vast collection of hymns that were heard by ancient Indian sages when they were in a deep meditative state. Collectively they are the most authoritative source of Indian wisdom as they contain information on every conceivable subject from the relationship between teacher and student to the structure of the human system, from the relevance of nature and the elements in our lives to the technical know-how necessary to build weapons and more.

Sanskrit, the classical Indian language, was the language of the Vedas. Over the years the vast information contained in the Vedas was preserved and transmitted from one generation of teachers and students to the next in an oral manner. There were no books or pens to facilitate taking notes.

In the Indian tradition, the concept of education implied a thorough study of the Vedas and the dedicated practice of Vedic chanting. In learning Vedic chanting, a student was expected to listen to his/her teacher and then to chant exactly as the teacher did.

Why do it?

Vedic chanting has multiple benefits when done in the correct manner:
It produces certain vibrations, and therefore can enhance physical and mental health.

The process of “adhyayanam” involves listening closely to the teacher and reproducing the chant exactly. Hence, this requires the student’s utmost attention. The practice of Vedic chanting is very useful in improving concentration and memory.

Listening to Vedic chanting and practicing it can also calm the mind. In fact, chanting is considered to be an important form of meditation.

Vedic chants can be applied in different ways with different effects. Hence, Vedic chanting can be effectively used in healing and yoga therapy.

Many of the texts are non-religious and everyone can learn. No prior experience is needed. Professor Krishnamacharya was a pioneer in making Vedic chanting available for everyone to practice and gain benefit from.