Temple Bhajan Guidelines
Sairam, this document provides guidance for performing bhajans in the temple. All bhajan singers, bhajan followers and devotees are requested to adhere to these guidelines to provide the best bhajan experience.
- All bhajan singers and musicians are requested to be present in the Temple prior to start time, so bhajans can be determined and sequenced to provide a seamless bhajan session.
- For bhajan singers coming for the first time, they need to arrive prior to start time, connect with the Bhajan coordinator (Singer) to familiarize the format and ability to follow it.
- Bhajan singers coming after the bhajans have started, need to talk to the temple Bhajan In-charge (BOD) to get proper guidance on participating in bhajans.
- All bhajan singers need to understand the proper format to make it easier for the rest of the musicians and followers. Please follow proper ragam (tune) and thalam (beat) so the musicians can accompany Bhajans. It is recommended to observe at least one bhajan to reconfirm the format prior to singing.
- Bhajans should be simple in nature and can be sung in any language. Typical bhajans are short and do not exceed 5 minutes. The lead singer will sing a line that will be followed by others in bhajan session. Please click here for sample bhajan. Note, in this sample audio, the first line of the bhajan is sung twice. However, during Thursdays we sign the first line one time.
- Solo bhajans, kirthans, classical and carnatic type of singing is not allowed during the scheduled bhajan sessions. However, they can be offered in Baba Temple at different times provided no scheduled activity is happening at that time. Please talk to Bhajan In-charge or volunteer on duty for further details.
- If adequate singers are already available at the starting of bhajan session, additional singers coming during the Bhajan session may not get opportunity to sing in that bhajan session.
- Last 15 minutes of Bhajan session are reserved for closing bhajans and Shanti Mantras. Bhajans are allowed only till that point. Once you sing your bhajan, you are required to stay back until the end of the session as a mark of respect to Baba and other singers.
- All bhajan singers will sit in front 3 rows. Men/boys sit on the left side (Dwarakamayi side) and ladies/girls sit on the right side (Chavadi side). Bhajan followers and devotees are also required to follow the same seating pattern for the duration of the bhajan sessions. Udi will be given to everyone after the bhajan session concludes.
Currently scheduled* Bhajan sessions are:
Thursdays 7:30pm – 8:30pm
2nd 4th Saturdays 7:00pm – 8:00pm
* Check Temple calendar for latest times
Updated: Jun 2023
Private Bhajans Policy and Guidelines
To maintain the sanctity, inclusiveness, and smooth functioning of Temple activities, the following guidelines apply to all Private Bhajan/Devotional session requests:
- Designated Time Slots
Private Bhajans may be scheduled only during the following approved time:
Second Saturday: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Fourth Sunday: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
First and Third Saturday: 7.00 PM to 8.00 PM
Note: If a Temple-organized program or special event is scheduled during this time, Private Bhajan requests will not be accommodated.
- Group Size Limitation: Each participating group must be limited to a maximum of 25 to 30 individuals, including singers, musicians, and attendees.
- Restrictions on Institutional and events Use: Private Bhajan sessions are intended solely for personal/group devotional offerings and not for institutional, instructional, or promotional purposes. Requests submitted by music schools, training institutes, or similar entities will not be approved if the intent is to use the Temple premises for teaching, rehearsals, structured practice sessions, annual day celebrations, workshops, or any organized program.Additionally, sessions must not be conducted in a manner that resembles a formal performance, recital, or arranged musical presentation (including music arangetram-style programs). The focus of all approved sessions must remain on simple, sincere bhajan singing offered in devotion to Baba, without elements of staging, showcasing talent, or institutional representation
- No Announcements: Any form of announcement, endorsement, or promotion of organizations, their services, or future programs is strictly prohibited within the Temple premises.
- Prohibition of Fundraising Activities: Fundraising, donations solicitation, or financial contributions, whether directly or indirectly are not permitted during Private Bhajan sessions.
- Inclusivity of Bhajans: All Bhajans must be devotional and inclusive in nature, representing the broader Hindu tradition. Content must not be limited to or centered around any single sect, denomination, or subgroup.
- Restrictions on Guru-Specific Content: Bhajans dedicated exclusively to specific gurus, lineages, or personalities are not allowed, in order to preserve a neutral and inclusive devotional environment.
- Advance Submission Requirement: All requests must be submitted at least 3-4 weeks in advance. Approval is subject to availability and adherence to Temple policies.
- Number of Requests: Each group may schedule a maximum of two Private Bhajan sessions per year. Priority will be given to first time requester over second time requester
- Permitted Activities: Only Bhajan singing is allowed during the allotted time. Dance performances, discourses, or any non-Bhajan activities are not permitted.
- No Temple Promotion Support: The Temple will not provide publicity, or promotional support for Private Bhajan sessions. Organizers are responsible for their own communication within the guidelines.
- Sound Level Guidelines: All participants must ensure that the sound level is maintained well below 80 dB at all times, in consideration of the temple environment and other ongoing activities.
- Photograph: Photographs or displays of deities, gurus, or individuals are not permitted.
- Audio Equipment Usage/Volunteer on Duty Instructions: Microphones and all sound equipment must be handled with care and respect. Only authorized Temple volunteers are permitted to adjust or operate the sound control board. Participants should not alter any audio settings.
- General Compliance and Equipment Restrictions: All participants must follow the directions of Temple volunteers at all times. Time slots are fixed and strictly enforced; Bhajans must begin and end within the allotted period.
Musical instruments must be limited to those appropriate for Bhajans and require prior approval. The use of external audio equipment—such as karaoke systems, Bluetooth speakers, or similar devices are strictly prohibited.
** Policy is applicable for Bhajans, Chanting and other devotional sessions but it excludes instrument music sessions
Updated: Apr 2026

