The Living Gods Among Us: Psychological Perception of Gods in Devbhoomi

Abstract

Religious beliefs have been seen in a condescending light by scientific purview for a long time. However, it is crucial to look at them from a psycho-social point of view, emphasizing upon their importance and functionality in everyday life. From developing a moral and ethical value system, to offering psychological comfort and emotional resilience – religious beliefs have various roles in Indian societies. The present explorative study offers an insight into the psychological perception of local gods and religious practices in the Devbhoomi land of Uttarakhand. Through semi-structured interviews, themes of resilience, comfort, belongingness and hope emerged from people’s beliefs in religious practices and local deities. Strong traditional values carried over generations and geographies influence people of Devbhoomi to the present day.