The definition of mantra is Mananát tárayet yastu– that collection of sounds, which, when meditated upon, lead to liberation. Man means mind and tra means to liberate. Mantras are usually in Sanskrit. Some mantras are only suitable to be repeated within one’s mind, others are suitable for saying aloud and singing (as in kiirtan). The best type of mantra for kiirtan is a siddha mantra. Siddha means perfect. Mantras all have a meaning. It is important to know the meaning of the mantra you are singing in kiirtan, otherwise you won’t be able to ideate on the meaning of the mantra.

Some popular mantras sung in kiirtan:

Bábá Nam Kevalam

Hare Krsna Hare Krsna Krsna Krsna Hare Hare Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare

Om Mane Padme Hum

Om Namah Shivaya

Savitr Rk (commonly referred to as the Gayatri mantra):