Lalitha Sahasranamam Chanting at Home: A Journey of Musical Fusion

As I sat down to think about my concert for CANCARE, I couldn't help but feel drawn to the verses of Lalitha Sahasranamam, which hold immense power. The melody had haunted me ever since, refusing to leave me alone. And so, when Aruna remembers chanting this divine chant at a concert in Berlin, it's no surprise that she felt an instant connection.

Did you know that many devotional chants from the West, dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries, are based on Indian ragas such as Kalyani, Kharaharapriya, and Sindhu Bhairavi? In fact, the German poetess and saint Hilde de Garde von Bingen is believed to have set some of her poems in Sindu Bhairavi! This highlights the universality of music and its ability to transcend borders.

There are many similarities between Indian classical music and ancient choral music, as explained by Aruna. She recalls a jamming session that was so moving it left everyone with moist eyes. And so, when Michael asked her if there were similar songs praising goddesses in India, she knew exactly what to share.

As part of my daily morning prayer, I chant Lalitha Sahasranamam regularly. Then, Michael started playing the organ and sang a beautiful hymn on Mother Mary. This fusion of Eastern and Western musical traditions is something that Aruna has never attempted before, but she's excited to explore this new terrain.

Tomorrow, July 7th, Aruna will pay tribute to various goddesses in a fusion concert titled 'Lalitha: The Divine Mother Goddess With a 1000 Venerable Names.' This show is a fundraiser for CANCARE Foundation, which offers palliative care to terminally-ill cancer patients and supports the surgeries, radiation, and chemotherapy of needy patients from low-income groups.

In this concert, Aruna will break new ground by jamming with the Chennai-based band Oxygen, blending the divine chants of Lalitha Sahasranamam with modern fusion music. This veteran singer is known for her willingness to experiment and push boundaries, making every performance a unique experience.

As the anticipation builds up, one thing is certain - whenever Aruna Sairam takes the stage, there's always a buzz around her music. And tomorrow, she'll be creating a new kind of magic that will leave audiences spellbound and inspired.

Lalitha sahasranamam chanting at home