The Impact of Kirtan/Gurbani on Emotional Health and Intra-Personal Relationships: A Cohort Study Among 1500 Women at Sant Bapu Tara Singh Khusdil Gurdwara Sahib in Arniwala Sheikh Shubhan, Fazilka

Background: Kirtan and Gurbani, central to Sikh spiritual practice, involve the recitation and singing of sacred hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib. These practices are thought to enhance emotional well-being and strengthen personal relationships. Despite their cultural significance, empirical evidence on their psychological benefits is limited. This cohort study aims to evaluate the impact of Kirtan/Gurbani participation on emotional health and intra-personal relationships among 1500 women attending the Sant Bapu Tara Singh Khusdil Gurdwara Sahib in Arniwala Sheikh Shubhan, Fazilka. Materials and Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted from August 2024 to January 2025 with 1500 women, aged 30–55 years, attending Kirtan/Gurbani sessions at the Gurdwara Sahib. Participants were divided into two groups: an intervention group (750 women) who regularly engaged in Kirtan/Gurbani and a control group (750 women) who did not participate regularly. Data was collected at baseline and monthly intervals over 6 months. Emotional health was measured using the Profile of Mood States (POMS) and the emotional regulation questionnaire. Intra-personal relationships were assessed using self-esteem, emotional intelligence, and self-compassion scales. Qualitative feedback was also gathered from participants to gain insights into their personal experiences. Results: The study revealed significant improvements in emotional health in the intervention group, indicated by a 45% reduction in mood disturbance POMS, compared to only 8% in the control group ( P <0.01). Emotional regulation showed a 60% improvement in the intervention group, significantly higher than the 8% improvement in the control group ( P <0.001). The intervention group also showed a 38% increase in self-esteem, 42% growth in emotional intelligence, and 50% increase in self-compassion, compared to 6%, 7%, and 7% in the control group, respectively (all P <0.01). The intervention group demonstrated stronger intra-personal relationships, including improved self-awareness and emotional clarity. Conclusion: This study highlights the positive effects of Kirtan and Gurbani on emotional health and intra-personal relationships among women. Participation in these spiritual practices led to significant improvements in mood regulation, self-esteem, emotional intelligence, and self-compassion. The findings support the inclusion of Kirtan and Gurbani in community-based mental health programs to enhance emotional well-being and promote stronger intra-personal relationships. Further research, particularly randomized controlled trials, is needed to confirm the causal effects of these practices on emotional health.