ASA KI VAR, is the term recorded in the index to the Guru Granth Sahib but this Gurbani is commonly called “Asa di Var”. It is found in the Sikh scripture from page 462 line 17 to page 475 line 10. It is a composition by Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhi and is sung by kirtania (religious musicians) at Sikh congregations or gatherings as part of the early morning service. It is said that if recited and sung with true belief, then one’s hopes/wishes are fulfilled.

The term “Asa di Var” comprises three words: The third word var means an ode or a lyrical verse; the word Asa which means “hope” in Punjabi) is also a Raag or musical measure used in the Guru Granth Sahib; and “ki” or “di” mean “of”. Thus together the terms means “A ballad of hope”. Raag Asa is the raga of pre-dawn hours and the custom of reciting the hymn at morning time is traced to the days of Guru Nanak himself.

MP3 audio of Asa di Var Katha