Hare Krishna

The song 'Hare Krishna' by Hair is a fascinating blend of spiritual chanting and countercultural themes. The repeated mantra 'Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama Hare Hare' is a traditional Hindu chant that seeks to invoke the divine presence of Lord Krishna and Lord Rama. This mantra is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to achieve a state of peace and connection with the divine. By incorporating this chant, the song taps into a deep well of spiritual tradition and invites listeners to explore a higher state of consciousness.

The lyrics then shift to a more countercultural message with lines like 'Love love, Drop out, Be in.' This reflects the ethos of the 1960s and 70s, a time when many young people were rejecting conventional societal norms in favor of a more liberated and experimental lifestyle. The phrases 'Take trips get high, Laugh joke and good bye' and 'I'm high on you know what' clearly reference the use of psychedelic drugs, which were often seen as a means to achieve expanded consciousness and spiritual awakening. The song thus becomes a tapestry of spiritual and psychedelic experiences, blending the sacred with the profane.

The repeated mention of 'Beads, flowers, freedom, happiness' further cements the song's connection to the hippie movement, which valued peace, love, and personal freedom. Beads and flowers were common symbols of this movement, representing a return to nature and a simpler, more harmonious way of life. The song 'Hare Krishna' by Hair is not just a piece of music; it's a cultural artifact that captures the spirit of an era defined by its quest for spiritual enlightenment and social liberation.