The namasamkirtana,[1] also rendered namajapa is the Hindu practice of congregational chanting of the names and other sacred expressions associated with a given deity. More commonly practised by members of the Vaishnava tradition, the namasamkirtana is characterised by devotees chanting the names of God in a religious gathering, in an expression of bhakti (devotion) and in a bid to achieve devotional ecstasy. This practice is regarded to have become popularised by the traditions that centred around Chaitanya, Vallabha, and Vithoba.[2] The practice is regarded to be a common form of bhajana.[3]
In Vaishnavism, the chanting of any or all of the names of Vishnu, either with or without the help of a japamala (rosary), is regarded to offer punya (religious merit) to the chanter, and is hence an important part of ritualistic worship.[4] Chanting the names of Vishnu is regarded to be a method of salvation in the Kali Yuga.[5]
According to Gaudiya Vaishnavism, the loud chanting and singing of the name of God is regarded to be conducive to attaining salvation, since it is considered to represent a more expressive love of God and thereby constitutes a greater spiritual experience.[6] [7]
The recitation of the names of Vishnu is a central theme of many texts, such as the Tiruppavai of Andal.[8]