The practice of harinam has an important place in Vaishnava culture and has been practiced in India for thousands of years. It is considered a form of Meditation and takes the form of congregational singing. One person leads the singing while others in the group respond. Depending on the circumstances these festive performances are done either within temples or in public. Such public performances are very common in India. The Radhadesh Community organizes harinams throughout the year.

The mantra that is most commonly used by Vaishnavas during harinam is known as the “maha-mantra”:

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama
Rama Rama Hare Hare