A Multidimensional Study of Happiness Among Indians: The available tools for assessing happiness are developed mostly in western societies. Although validated, these measures do not sufficiently capture all the dimensions of happiness that are most important to the Indian population. Addressing this gap, Professor Kamlesh Singh is leading a nationwide research project that aims to develop a happiness measure for Indians. An extensive review of the literature from both western and non-western countries (especially India), findings from two qualitative studies which involved the participation of a diverse sample in semi-structured interviews, surveys and focus group discussions, and expert consultation informed the development of the new multidimensional happiness scale. Additionally, the team also developed another scale which intends to explore the factors facilitating happiness among Indians. The project is currently in its final stage where the scales are being examined for their psychometric properties. The project is funded by the Rajya Anand Sansthan, Government of Madhya Pradesh starting March 2020 till September 2023. Professor Kamlesh is also joined by Gaurav Saxena who is working as the Research Assistant for the project.


Book on Religion, Spirituality and Positive Psychology: A new academic book exploring the associations between religion, spirituality and positive psychology has received acceptance for publication by Springer publishers. With Professor Kamlesh Singh and Gaurav Saxena of IIT Delhi as the co-editors, the book will explore the philosophical, theoretical, and practical aspects of the various dominant Indian religions (such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Jain, Christianity, Sikhism) that inform our present-day positive psychological understanding. In addition to religion and spirituality, a section of this book is also dedicated to reviewing the current understanding of the Indian notion of well-being and synthesizing findings on several unique practices that facilitate well-being among Indians. The book will invite contributions from academics, research scholars and clinicians from all parts of India and is expected to be published by early 2023.