"Sensational Rhythms of the Ineffable is rooted in Inderjit Kaur's open-hearted, sensory ethnographic research and a lifetime of participation in Sikh kirtan. Drawing on this deep well, the book presents nothing less than a new way of understanding the relationship between sound, rhythm, and being. Kaur's mind-expanding approach traces profound connections between the rhythmicity of sound and embodied, collective modes of practicing Sikhi. Foregrounding Sikh epistemologies of vibration and subjectivity, Kaur models a decolonial approach to theory and method. Her arguments are not purely academic; they are grounded in a sincere investment in the goodness that sonic relationality can engender." -- Anna C. Schultz, University of Chicago"Sensational Rhythms of the Ineffable is a compelling argument for the somatic power of Sabad Kirtan. From a wide-angle philosophical lens, rhythm is explored as a catalyst for cultivating a relationship with the self, the world, and the Divine.

This insightful and engaging study brings much-needed attention to the body as a living expression of theological and ethical teachings rooted in Sikh scriptural values. A fabulous contribution! A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the transformative power of music, rhythm, and spirituality in the Sikh tradition and beyond." -- Nikky-Guninder Kaur Singh, Colby College"More than just a welcome addition to the literature on Sikh devotional practice or on religion and the senses, this book shows how essential the experience of Sikh kirtan is to a complete understanding of either field. In proposing a 'Sikh theory of lived rhythm' to demonstrate how the body and its senses are attuned through kirtan to metaphysics and practical ethics, Inderjit Kaur invites her readers into the experience of cultivating Sikh sensibilities. This book also demonstrates how Sikh philosophy and teachings permeate kirtan-not just through the discursive meanings of the songs but also via the performance which is activated by the musical structures, instruments, styles, and especially the congregants whose participation is essential to achieve 'time vistas of awe' and to sense the Ineffable." -- Anna Bigelow, Stanford University.