JOURNEYING TO THE LIVING ROOTS OF DEVOTIONAL MUSIC
- 3-13 January, 2027
- Registration open till 25 November 2026
- Language: English
š¦ The Journey
Have you ever felt a deep, unspoken pull while listening to a bhajan or kirtan? A sense that the music carries something beyond melody and wordsāa living current of devotion that awakens something within you.
Every great kirtan has this quality. It doesn't come merely from musical ability, but from the heart of the one who sings and the tradition that has nourished that heart for generations.
Bhakti Bhajan Yatra is an invitation to awaken that same depth within yourself. Through this intensive, immersive retreat, you'll discover the true purpose of kirtan, deepen your own devotional practice, and trace India's sacred musical lineages back to their living sourceāallowing your kirtan to become not just something you perform, but something you genuinely offer.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Part I
The Devotional Tapestry of Delhi
India's devotional music has never belonged to a single tradition. Across centuries, saints from different paths have used music as a vehicle for Divine remembrance, each preserving a unique spiritual mood while pointing toward the same Truth. In Delhi, we encounter two of these extraordinary traditions.
Sikh Gurbani Kirtan:
- Encounter the extraordinary rÄga tradition preserved by the Sikh Gurus, where scripture itself is sung.
- Learn sacred shabads, experience the discipline and beauty of this living tradition, and discover how music becomes both meditation and worship.
The Teachings of Kabir:
- Visit a Kabir music centre and experience the living tradition of Kabir through timeless poetry, soulful music, and profound teachings of one of India's greatest mystic saints.
Part II
The Sacred Mood of Braj
Our journey begins in the mystical land of Braj, the eternal playground of Radha and Krishna. Here, devotion is woven into daily life, and music is not simply performedāit is offered as an act of love. This is where countless saints and poets gave voice to their devotion through bhajans that continue to inspire seekers today.
- Immerse Yourself in Braj BhÄva: Learn traditional Braj bhajans and devotional melodies that have been lovingly preserved through generations.
- Experience Living Tradition: Visit sacred places, join authentic local kirtans, and spend time with saints and practitioners to experience the power of the Divine Name firsthand.
- Deepen Your Connection: Discover the devotional roots behind many of the bhajans shared by Paramahamsa Vishwananda, enriching your understanding of their meaning and mood.
Masterclasses with Guest Artists
Alongside our journey through these sacred traditions, you'll learn directly from invited master musicians and accomplished devotional singers whose lives have been dedicated to sacred music.
These intimate workshops are designed not simply to improve technique, but to deepen your ability to offer kirtan as an authentic expression of devotion.
Together we will explore:
- Voice & Expression ā develop a natural voice infused with the subtle flavour of Indian vocal traditions.
- Sacred Pronunciation ā refine Sanskrit, Braj Bhasha, and Gurmukhi pronunciation so every mantra and verse is offered with clarity and respect.
- BhÄva in Music ā discover how devotion, meaning, and musical expression come together to transform singing into prayer.
GUIDES
Bhakti Marga Musicians
Learn from experienced Bhakti Marga kirtan leaders, including Rishi Atma Ramananda, Avanish, and Tejomayi, who have spent years immersed in India's devotional traditions and leading kirtan across Bhakti Marga communities. They will share the musical understanding, devotional mood, and practical approach to kirtan as encouraged by Paramahamsa Vishwananda.
Guest Master Musicians
Study with invited professional musicians and devotional artists from outside Bhakti Marga who have dedicated their lives to India's sacred musical traditions. Through exclusive workshops and masterclasses, they'll share specialized knowledge, techniques, and perspectives rarely available in a single retreat.
Saints of Braj
Meet revered saints who have spent their lives immersed in the devotion of Braj. Through their guidance, presence, and wisdom, you'll experience the living heart of bhakti and gain insights that can only be received through direct association.
WHAT YOU'LL RECEIVE
Deepen Your Devotion:
Discover the true purpose of kirtan as a path of bhakti, allowing every bhajan to become a heartfelt offering to the Divine.
Rare Access:
Learn directly from saints, master musicians, and living devotional traditions in an experience few kirtan singers ever encounter.
Musical Refinement:
Build confidence through refined vocal technique, authentic pronunciation, and expressive devotional singing.
REGISTRATION DETAILS
Registration is open till 25 November 2026.
Price
Price: 151,800 INR (ā1,380 EUR).
To confirm the reservation, an advance payment of 75,900 INR (ā690 EUR) is required;Ā the prepayment period is until 30 November 2026.
The final balance must be paid by 25 December 2026.
Important Information
Early closure of registration is possible once all places are filled.
Changes in the programme are possible due to unforeseen circumstances. Bhakti Marga India is not responsible for any changes in the programme due to force majeure.
INCLUDED IN THE COST
NOT INCLUDED IN THE COST
Moana, Germany
"The Kirtan with the saints was truly an unforgettable experience.
These saints were such humble and simple beings, and that simplicity was beautifully reflected in their singing. We were somewhere in the forest, or in a secluded place, with only a few people around. There was no big band, no stage, no huge crowd. It was simply them, their voices, and perhaps one or two instruments. And yet, the feeling was far deeper than anything I have ever experienced at a big concert.
There was so much joy in the atmosphere. You could feel how their voices carried our hearts.
One of the saints simply began to sing āRadha.ā Just one word. And the very first note touched everyoneās heart. People around us had tears in their eyes. For me, it was absolutely stunning. I remember thinking: What kind of purity must live in this saintās heart, that he can sing just one word and touch so many people so deeply?
There was no filter. Nothing was added or performed. It came straight from his heart. There were no expectations, no desires, no need to impress anyone. It was simply singing out of love.
It was just him and the Lord.
After this experience, I felt deeply inspired. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to meet and experience these saints. Even now, it remains a precious memory that I like to return toāa reminder of what is possible when singing comes from such a pure place."