Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The coronavirus disease pandemic has worsened psychological distress in people experiencing homelessness (PEH). This study evaluates the impact of learning the Bhagavad Gita versus engaging in Kuchipudi dance on reducing psychological distress in PEH in Chennai and Dhanbad, India. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: Participants will be allocated into Bhagavad Gita, Kuchipudi dance, Both interventions, or Control groups. The Kessler scale (K10) score, representing the primary outcome, will be measured at four time points: one day before intervention, one day after intervention completion, 40 days post-intervention, and 1 year post-intervention. The K10 scores will be analyzed using the Generalized Estimating Equation framework. Additionally, subgroup analysis based on participant demographics (e.g., age, education, religion, employment) will be conducted to explore potential differential effects using analysis of covariance. Statistical significance will be determined at p < 0.05 (two-tailed). DISSEMINATION: After study completion, findings will be shared at conferences, in peer-reviewed journals, and with stakeholders and community groups. Authorship will be granted to contributing researchers, with acknowledgment for others. The dataset will be publicly available upon publication. Efforts will be made to communicate results through infographics, plain language summaries, and tailored strategies, including community meetings and digital platforms, to engage and empower PEH in decision-making. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial has been registered with the Clinical Trials Registry of India (registration number: CTRI/2022/12/048416).