Kalpwas: A pursuit of happiness

Pages: 860-863
Stuti Singh (Department of Psychology, University of Allahabad, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh)

Happiness is a mental or emotional state of well-being which can be characterized by emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy. The present study aims at exploring the nature and determinants of happiness among Kalpwais in Magh Mela. It also tried to explore the link between their religious practices and feeling of happiness. The study being exploratory in nature, semi structured interview was chosen for the purpose of data collection. Interviews were held on eleven participants between 58 to 81 years of age. All the participants have left their home for performing Kalpwas for a month and were residing in the tents arranged at the bank of Ganga. A semi structured interview schedule was prepared for the interviews. Each interview was audio taped and then transcribed for further analysis. Response themes indicated that other than their daily religious activities these Kalpwais were indulged in acts as helping others and strengthening their social bonds. This according to them gives sense of peace and mental satisfaction which further leads to happiness. They further reported that Kalpwas has a positive impact on their health and minds.