Prema Kirtan is a well-researched, in depth, heartful study of the inner journey of kirtan, as a spiritual practice, a form of yoga, and a meditation on sound. The book is both a primer for those just discovering kirtan, as well as a wealth of knowledge for those already in the world of kirtan who want to deepen their practice.

Pranada Comtois has gifted us again through her flowing, delightful, and insightful writing with yet another intelligent and definitive expression; this time on the intriguing subject of kirtan – the ancient spiritual practice consisting of ardent glorification and loving solicitation of the Divinity through the chanting of sacred mantra. Contextualized for the modern reader and using accessible language Prema-Kirtan: Journey into Sacred Sound delivers ample enrichment and a joyful framework for progress. It is written with precision, clarity, and practical application in mind. Far more than an academic treatise – this book is a statement issuing from some four decades of intense devotional practice and research. Whether one is new to kirtan, or an experienced chanter, or simply a curious seeker, this beautiful book will prove to be a powerful, illuminating, and invaluable addition to your spiritual library.

Whether you’re new to kirtan or familiar with it, this book will help you go deeper into an exploration of mantra meditation. Deep transformation is possible through chanting sacred mantras and singing in kirtan and Prema Kirtan offers wisdom and guidance into this enjoyable, ancient and potent yoga practice.

One of the lasting memories I have from the film “Women of Bhakti” (2012) is of Pranada Comtois explaining that there is a special type of love that is reserved only for God, and how this differs from its worldly counterpart. But to fully understand this divine love, prema – the deep ocean of feeling and devotion toward the Supreme – requires lengthy expositions by devotees immersed in that ocean. In Prema Kirtan, Pranada Comtois provides a clear path toward fulfilling that need, first by describing the practices of prema kirtan by which prema is to be achieved, and then by offering the healing and transformative messages that lead one to the nectar of devotion.

In her book Prema Kirtan, Pranada Comtois lays a compelling case for the art of kirtan being the centerpiece for bhakti. Drawing from holy scriptures such as the Bhagavad Gita, her devotion to Sri Krishna comes through as infectious as the bhakti she espouses. This work belongs in every kirtan lover’s library and every bhakta’s heart. 

With kirtan popularity continuously on the rise, this book offers valuable insight into the tradition, the application and importance of the sacred practice of kirtan. I highly recommend all kirtan lovers to check this out!

In her latest book Prema Kirtan, Pranada Comtois explores how sound creates a multi-faceted crystal of conscious awareness. Her journey begins with a carefully researched analysis of the influence of sound on every aspect of life. She takes her reader step by step through ever deeper understandings of the universe of sound, leading from everyday encounters inwards to the essence. She goes on to carefully guide the reader to the practice of sacred sound in the forms of mantra and kirtan.

Throughout her book are scattered gems of wisdom. Pranada Comtois devotes Chapter 5, The Yoga of Kirtan, to relating her personal experiences with kirtan and mantra. I found this most illuminating. To hear the author’s personal journey brings special insight. As she says, “Each person’s journey is unique.”

The title, Prema Kirtan, has a special significance. Pranada explains that kirtan can be of two kinds. It can aim for release into the Oneness, which she calls “mukti kirtan.” Or it can be an expression of pure love for Krishna, which she calls Prema Kirtan. For Pranada Comtois pure love is the goal.

Prema Kirtan is valuable for its personal reflections on the nature of kirtana, giving the reader of a picture of that it is, what it means, how it functions within community, and how it is thought about in terms of Vaishnava scripture and history. Readers will enjoy the interweaving of narrative, history, and theory in well composed prose.

Prema Kirtan is exactly what the world needs right now – a practical guide to the science and art of kirtan. This simple spiritual practice is so accessible a child can do it. Kirtan holds within it a seedling that, when planted in the heart and properly nourished, can heal and transform the world. Using her own life expressed through her gift of clear and loving language, Pranada shows us how.

Prema Kirtan is a profound and unique work that is full of gems for all types of readers. Whether one is a complete beginner on the spiritual path or an experienced kirtan practitioner, they are sure to receive inspiration and insights from this work. The writing style is intricate and poetic, yet accessible and clear. Pranada’s own spiritual depth and absorption in the beautiful practice of kirtan shine through in the pages. This is a must read for anyone looking for simple and practical ways to awaken more love and joy into their life.