Bhajans (songs of devotion)

We've recently been introduced to some incredible ethnic worship music.

Aradhna is the name of the group. Started by two guys, Chris Hale and Peter Hicks, who grew up in Northern India/Nepal. The music flows from their desire for an Indian expression of devotion to Yeshu Khrist, the North Indian name for Jesus Christ. Many converts have embraced the music of the west for their worship...these men have found a way to express worship and praise within in the context of Eastern! INDIAN! music. These songs express adoration through Bhajans (literally "songs of devotion") and the Indian way of bhakti (literally "devotion").

The website has extensive information about their music. (Chris Hale has actually done a Thesis on Bhakti/Bhajans!) They offer 3 selections for preview from each of their albums with the lyrics and translation AND the sheet music! Check out one of our favorites "YeshuRaaja" (Jesus my King) Should any of you Mississippi readers have interest, Aradhna will be in OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI September 15-17, 2006. I wish we could go!

We found out about Aradhna through their work with International Justice Mission.