ABSTRACT
Ritual is not a “free expression of emotions” but rather a disciplined rehearsal of “right attitudes.” In Garhwal in the Western Himalayas of North India, when a young married woman leaves her parents’ home after a post-nuptial visit, she is expected to weep loudly. If she does not do so, she is regarded as a “bad daughter.” However, this does not necessarily mean that she is sad — which became clear to the author the first time he saw this ritualized behavior. The guru displays a kind of emotional stance that, in German, is called souveran, i.e., he is utterly in control of his emotions; calm and unflappable. Despite the drama, fear, and powerful emotions associated with these rituals, the guru should always remain calm and detached, with a “laughing face” and a souveran manner. When necessary, he can display certain “sterner” emotions: mild anger for example, when he is threatening or ordering the spirits to do something.
