Sankirtanfest - The Sweet Vraja (Govardhan)

Kirtan arrives in Rome

For the first time in its history, Sankirtanfest crosses the borders of the United Kingdom and chooses Italy for its first international edition. The event is set for Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, at Domus Ristora on Via Casilina, in the municipality of Rome, in the heart of the Lazio region. A day entirely dedicated to kirtan, the collective devotional singing of the Vaishnava tradition, where music, meditation, and community blend into a single experience.

What is Sankirtan?

The term sankirtan refers to the practice of congregational singing of the names and glories of the divine, accompanied by traditional instruments such as the mridanga and karatala. The subtitle of the 2026 edition, "The Sweet Vraja (Govardhan)," evokes Vraja, the land of Krishna's childhood, and Govardhan Hill: a theme that weaves together sweetness, devotion, and gratitude. It is not just a concert, but an invitation to participate: anyone can join in the singing, clap their hands, dance, or simply listen in silence.

Artists and Program

Kirtan groups from afar will take turns on the Roman stage. Announced guests include Nayana Das and Gour Gopal Sarkar, ensembles from India, and Vijay Krsna along with the brother duo Krishna and Josh Shil from the UK. Eleven hours of live music are interwoven with guided mantra meditation, music workshops, and moments of reflection for an audience of all ages and backgrounds.

A festival for all ages

Sankirtanfest is designed as a community and family experience. Alongside the singing, there will be vegetarian meals prepared and shared, a kirtan dedicated to children, music workshops, and seva activities—the voluntary service that is an integral part of the event's philosophy. The Domus Ristora venue, with its spacious gardens and outdoor areas, offers a perfect setting to experience the day with calm and serenity.

Rome and the international dimension

The fact that Sankirtanfest has chosen Rome, and the Centocelle district along the historic Via Casilina, for its debut outside the UK is a sign of the growing spread of kirtan culture in Italy and the Lazio region. Promoted by a British charity, the festival aims to build a bridge between different traditions and communities, bringing a day of devotional music, sharing, and hospitality to the Capital.