Ian Simmons launched Kicking the Seat in 2009, one week after seeing Nora Ephron’s Julie & Julia. His wife proposed blogging as a healthier outlet for his anger than red-faced, twenty-minute tirades (Ian is no longer allowed to drive home from the movies).
The Kicking the Seat Podcast followed three years later and, despite its “undiscovered gem” status, Ian thoroughly enjoys hosting film critic discussions, creating themed shows, and interviewing such luminaries as Gaspar Noé, Rachel Brosnahan, Amy Seimetz, and Richard Dreyfuss.
Ian is a member of the Chicago Film Critics Association. He also has a family, a day job, and conflicted feelings about referring to himself in the third person.
Known for his deeply meditative and classical approach, his rendition of the Hanuman Chalisa and bhajans like "Sankat Mochan Hanuman Ashtak" remain the gold standard for morning prayers in millions of households. His voice carries a serene gravity that induces immediate calmness.
Vintage recordings relied entirely on traditional instruments. The organic resonance of a wooden harmonium, the earthy thud of a dholak, and the bright chime of brass manjira created a rich, warm sonic texture. This acoustic simplicity left ample room for the main instrument: the raw, unpitch-corrected human voice. Adherence to Classical Ragas
The slower tempos characteristic of older music act as an auditory anchor, helping modern listeners reduce anxiety and practice mindfulness in a fast-paced digital world. hanuman old bhajan
Culturally, these old bhajans function as oral histories. Long before printed books or digital screens were accessible to all, communities gathered for Satsangs (spiritual gatherings) to sing these exact compositions. They passed down complex philosophical concepts—such as surrendering the ego and overcoming internal obstacles—to younger generations through easily memorable refrains. The Digital Revival of Vintage Devotion
(“Mighty Bajrang, I won’t open the door, Without you, Lord, who can I speak for?”) Known for his deeply meditative and classical approach,
These classic devotional songs are more than just musical compositions. They are cultural touchstones that have transcended time, connecting the past with the present and continuing to offer solace to millions. The Spiritual Essence of Old Bhajans
A beautiful, slow-tempo bhajan that praises the auspicious form of the Monkey God. The organic resonance of a wooden harmonium, the
While there are thousands of renditions of the Hanuman Chalisa, Hariom Sharan’s version from the late 20th century remains the gold standard for traditional households. His calm, deep, and measured delivery makes it perfect for daily morning meditation and recitation.