Sacred Sound & Mantra Evenings

Afrishanti School of Yoga - Ina Gerber Studio (Pastorie Business Park), Somerset West (corner of Lourens & Reitz Streets). Dial 43 at the gate & park inside.

New Moon & Autumn Equinox Kirtan-by-Candlelight

18 March 2026 (19:15-20:30)

Join us on 18 March for a gentle, heart-opening evening of sacred sound as we gather in candlelight to honour the New Moon and the turning of the wheel to the Autumn Equinox.

This is a moment of gratitude — a time to pause, reflect, and harvest the quiet rewards of the intentions we planted in the spring. Through harmonium-led mantra chanting, devotional song, and immersive sound bathing, we create a warm, nourishing space to soften, receive, and reconnect.

No singing experience is needed. Come as you are.

Bring a yoga mat (we have spares), a cushion for comfort, and if you feel called, an instrument you love — rattles, bells, bowls, chimes, or gentle percussion are all welcome.

Together we will chant, breathe, listen, and rest in the glow of community and sacred sound.

🌙 Date: 18 March 2026, 19:15-20:30 (after yoga)

🕯 Theme: Gratitude • Harvest • Inner Light

📍 Afrishanti School of Yoga (Ina Gerber Studio, Pastorie Park)

💎 R180 (payable by EFT before the event)

🎶 All voices welcome

Spaces are limited — message now to reserve your place.

Come sit in the circle. Let the music hold you.

Bhakti Kirtan Evenings

Open your heart through music, mantra, and shared sacred sound.

Welcome to our Bhakti Kirtan Evenings — a gentle, uplifting space where people of all backgrounds come together to explore the healing power of sound.

You don’t need to be a singer, you don’t need experience, and you don’t need to know anything about mantra or meditation. Simply come as you are.

Kirtan is a form of call-and-response chanting, traditionally rooted in yoga and devotional practices.

The repetition of simple, melodic mantras helps quiet the mind, open the heart, and create a deep sense of peace and connection.

Sessions are held in Somerset West (Western Cape), although we can also bring our kirtan to your local studio - contact Ryan for more info: ryan@afrishanti.com

Our Evenings Weave Together

Harmonium-led mantra chanting
Group singing and call-and-response repetition
Spiritual sound baths using bowls, drums, bells, and gentle percussion
Moments of stillness and reflection
Collective intention-setting and closing blessings

No musical skill is required — your voice is perfect exactly as it is. Whether you're seeking meditation, community, emotional release, or simply a beautiful evening of sound, these gatherings offer a warm, welcoming sanctuary for all.

Come chant, breathe, listen, and reconnect with the quiet light within.

For questions, or to book your spot at our next Kirtan Evening, please email Ryan Edmonds ryan@afrishanti.com (or WhatsApp 071 874 1890)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to know how to sing?

Not at all. Kirtan is for every voice — confident, shy, trained, untrained. The beauty of this practice is that we sing together, and your voice blends naturally into the group. There is no performance, only participation.

What exactly is kirtan?

Kirtan is a simple, joyful form of chanting where the leader sings a line, and the group repeats it. The mantras are easy, repetitive, and soothing. You don’t need to “get it right” — it’s about feeling, not perfection.

Do I need to know the mantras?

No prior knowledge is needed. All mantras are taught gently and repeated many times. You’ll pick them up naturally, even if it’s your first time. Often, mantras sheets will be provided.

Is this religious?

Kirtan is a spiritual practice, not a religious ceremony. You are welcome regardless of your background, beliefs, or tradition. The focus is on shared sound, connection, and inner calm.

What should I bring?

A yoga mat (we have spares if you don’t have one)
A cushion or blanket if you’d like extra comfort
Water
An open heart and curiosity

May I bring an instrument?

Absolutely! We love when people add to the soundscape. Feel free to bring:

Shakers
Bells
Small drums
Singing bowls
Chimes
Pan pans / tongue drums
Any gentle, acoustic instrument you feel called to play

We will also have a variety of instruments available for you to borrow.

Do I have to chant the whole time?

No. You are welcome to:

Sing
Hum
Listen quietly
Lie down and receive the sound
Meditate
Join in and step back as it feels right

There is no expectation — your experience is your own.

Is this suitable for beginners?

Yes. Our evenings are designed to be accessible, comforting, and welcoming for first-timers. No experience with yoga, chanting, meditation, or music is needed.

What is the atmosphere like?

Think warm, candlelit, community-oriented, and relaxed. People often describe it as calming, heart-opening, and deeply nourishing.

How long does a session last?

Typically 60–90 minutes, depending on the flow of the group and the energy in the room.

Can children come?

If they can sit comfortably in a calm, meditative environment and enjoy sound, they’re welcome. Otherwise, these evenings are generally best suited to teens and adults.