Kirtan is a traditional way of chanting devotional songs or mantras that has been performed in India for hundreds of years. The styles of kirtan have evolved over time and different instruments have been used. Presently, a typical set of instruments is harmonium, mridanga or tabla, karatals (cymbals), and sometimes tanpura, bamboo flute, vina and sarangi. It is usually in a simple call and response form. The songs are written about Krishna, Rama, Shiva, Durga, Ganesh, Hanuman and other Divine personalities. The Mantras are usually prayers to Krishna - the supreme God or the Devas - the demigods.