1. Vaishnav Jan To – Narsinh Mehta (Gujarati)
Composer: 15th-century saint-poet Narsinh Mehta.
Musical Features: Set in Raga Ahir Bhairav, this Bhajan emphasizes simplicity and moral values. Its slow tempo and repetitive structure make it ideal for beginners.
Why Learn It: Popularized by Mahatma Gandhi, it’s a universal anthem for compassion and righteousness.
Key Line: “Vaishnav jan to tene kahiye, je peed parayi jaane re” (A true devotee is one who feels others’ pain).
2. Bhaja Govindam – Adi Shankaracharya (Sanskrit)
Composer: 8th-century philosopher Adi Shankaracharya.
Musical Features: Often sung in Raga Mohanam or Bilahari, this Bhajan combines philosophical depth with rhythmic vitality.
Why Learn It: Teaches control over laya (rhythm) and articulation of Sanskrit lyrics.
Key Line: “Bhaja Govindam, bhaja Govindam, Govindam bhaja moodha-mate” (Worship Govinda).
3. Payoji Maine Ram Ratan Dhan Payo – Meerabai (Hindi/Braj Bhasha)
Composer: 16th-century mystic poet Meerabai.
Musical Features: Set in Raga Yaman, this Bhajan’s joyful melody and taans (fast runs) challenge vocal agility.
Why Learn It: Perfect for mastering meend (glides) and expressing bhakti (devotion) through dynamics.
Key Line: “Payoji Maine Ram Ratan Dhan Payo” (I have found the treasure of Ram’s name).
4. Hanuman Chalisa – Tulsidas (Awadhi)
Composer: 16th-century poet Tulsidas.
Musical Features: Typically sung in Raga Bhairav or Kafi, its 40 verses demand breath control and rhythmic precision.
Why Learn It: Builds stamina and diction for long-form devotional singing.
Key Line: “Jai Hanuman gyan gun sagar” (Hail Hanuman, ocean of wisdom and virtue).
5. Krishna Nee Begane Baro – Vyasatirtha (Kannada)
Composer: 16th-century saint Vyasatirtha of the Haridasa tradition.
Musical Features: Composed in Raga Yamunakalyani, this Carnatic Bhajan blends intricate sangatis (variations) with devotional fervor.
Why Learn It: Introduces South Indian gamakas (ornamentations) to Hindustani singers.
Key Line: “Krishna nee begane baro” (Krishna, come quickly to my courtyard).
6. Allah Hi Reham – Kabir (Hindi)
Composer: 15th-century mystic Kabir.
Musical Features: Sung in Raga Bhimpalasi, this Sufi-inspired Bhajan blends Hindu and Islamic spirituality.
Why Learn It: Teaches komal swaras (flat notes) and the art of conveying universal unity.
Key Line: “Allah hi reham kar, Raheem hi karam kar” (Allah, bestow your mercy).
7. Aarti Kunj Bihari Ki – Traditional (Hindi)
Composer: Anonymous, popularized in modern times by Lata Mangeshkar.
Musical Features: Set in Raga Kedar, this Krishna Aarti uses simple, repetitive phrases ideal for group singing.
Why Learn It: A staple in temples and festivals, it’s essential for community performances.
Key Line: “Aarti kunj bihari ki, Shri giridhar krishna murari ki” (Worship to Krishna, the flute-player).
8. Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram – Lakshmanacharya (Sanskrit/Hindi)
Composer: 17th-century saint Lakshmanacharya, popularized by Gandhi.
Musical Features: Sung in Raga Shivaranjani, its uplifting rhythm and unison chorus make it a communal favorite.
Why Learn It: Builds confidence in leading group Bhajans and balancing melody with rhythm.
Key Line: “Raghupati raghava raja ram, patita paavan sita ram” (Lord Rama, uplifter of the fallen).
9. Balo Sakha Radhey Shyam – Surdas (Braj Bhasha)
Composer: 16th-century poet Surdas.
Musical Features: Set in Raga Pilu, this Bhajan’s playful taans and bol-taans (lyrical runs) mimic Krishna’s mischief.
Why Learn It: Enhances improvisational skills and storytelling through music.
Key Line: “Balo sakha Radhey Shyam, Gokul ke gwal” (Sing of Radha and Shyam, the cowherd of Gokul).
10. Om Jai Jagdish Hare – Traditional (Hindi)
Composer: Anonymous, modernized by Pandit Shardha Ram Phillauri.
Musical Features: Sung in Raga Durga, this Aarti’s structured verses and crescendos are perfect for ceremonial singing.
Why Learn It: A ubiquitous Hindu prayer, it’s a must-know for festivals and rituals.
Key Line: “Om jai Jagdish hare, swami jai Jagdish hare” (Hail Lord of the Universe).
How to Approach Learning These Bhajans
- Understand the Lyrics: Translate the verses to connect emotionally.
- Master the Raga: Practice scale exercises (Alankars) in the Bhajan’s raga.
- Start Slow: Use a tanpura/tabla track to internalize pitch and rhythm.
- Record & Reflect: Identify areas to improve pitch, breath, or expression.
Why Krishna Music School’s Bhajan Curriculum Stands Out
- Raga-Based Training: Learn Bhajans in their traditional ragas for authenticity.
- Lyrical Interpretation: Workshops on expressing devotion through bhava (emotion).
- Performance Opportunities: Monthly Bhajan Sandhyas (evening sessions) to showcase skills.
Conclusion: Bhajans as a Path to Artistic and Spiritual Growth
These 10 Bhajans are not just songs—they are heirlooms of India’s spiritual legacy. By mastering them, you’ll not only refine your vocal technique but also deepen your connection to the divine.
Ready to Begin?
Join Krishna Music School to learn these Bhajans under expert guidance. Whether you dream of singing in temples, festivals, or simply for inner peace, we’ll help you find your devotional voice.
Visit Krishna Music School to enroll today!