Some Krishna Carols
BY: JAGABANDHU DAS
Dec 14, FORT WHITE, FLORIDA, USA (SUN) — Ever since I heard about Srila Jiva Goswami's educational innovations with the Holy Name in Srila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada's Supremely Gorgeous Sri Chaitanya-caritamrta thirty years ago, I always wanted to do Krishna carol Harinam! "We Three Kings" goes perfectly with the Maha-mantra (as the lyrics). Also, "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" can be changed to singing "We wish you were Hare Krishnas...and Hare Ramas."
Dress up in regular western seasonal apparel with scarves, mufflers, tasseled-stocking caps, mittens and sing a cappella, just like regular Xmas caroling. The Krishna Carolers. It would make people smile and many would only notice the melody (or think it was the same lyrics in a different language). I really liked it when I heard that Srila Bhaktivinode Thakur had often co-opted popular contemporary folk melodies from his time to use as melodies for some of his bhajans. Ever since hearing that, I 've always thought the possibilities limitless to be innovative. In much the same way as it is with transcendental language and music (the real Mother tongue of everyone).
I really like a cappella Kirtan! Because the sound of the Holy Name mainly prevails (may the force of sincerity also kindly prevail nonetheless!). Wouldn't it be wonderful if not unlike the well-known Mormon Tabernacle Choir, there could similarly be the Krishna Temple Singers? Well-renowned the entire world round for singing. Especially Chintamani (or the Maha-mantra) in a celestial chorale with three part harmony.
Tis the season to be giving. This year give Love. The gift that keeps on giving. Loneliness over lost loved ones unfortunately often predominates this time of year ( and individual economic inability to give "gifts"), thereby causing many to feel even more sad than usual. As they fill the streets and stores. By singing some Krishna carols in a soft, gentle voice it makes Sri Hari Nam more possible than usual on an individual level, even in grocery stores, highways etc. Another way to spread the Holy Name all around everywhere to everyone.
Ho, ho, ho...Hare Krishnas! :-)! And all the very best to everyone!
