Ayodhya: 3,000 apply for post of priests at Ram temple, 20 to be selected after interviews

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• Nov 21, 2023 | Dhupali Das

The interviews for these candidates are being conducted at Karsevak Puram, the headquarters of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) in Ayodhya...

Digital Desk: As the highly anticipated consecration ceremony of the Ram Lalla temple in Ayodhya draws closer, the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has initiated crucial procedures, including the meticulous selection of priests for the temple's sacred services.

According to reports, an overwhelming response was witnessed, with approximately 3,000 applicants vying for the esteemed positions after the Ram Mandir Teerth Kshetra Trust advertised vacancies. From this pool, 200 candidates were shortlisted based on merit, as per a PTI report quoting an official.

The interviews for these candidates are being conducted at Karsevak Puram, the headquarters of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) in Ayodhya. The selection process is being overseen by a distinguished three-member panel comprising Hindu preacher Jaykant Mishra from Vrindavan, alongside two mahants from Ayodhya, Mithilesh Nandini Sharan, and Satyanarayan Das. Ultimately, 20 candidates will be chosen for the prestigious roles.

Selected candidates will undergo six months of residential training, after which they will be appointed as priests and assigned to various roles within the temple. Even those not chosen will receive training and certification, with prospects for potential future priestly positions, shared Govind Dev Giri, the trust treasurer, in conversation with PTI.

The interviews focused on assessing candidates' knowledge, delving into intricate aspects of rituals and worship. Questions spanned topics such as the intricacies of 'Sandhya Vandan,' its procedures, the 'mantras' associated with worshiping Lord Ram, and the essential 'karma kand' (rituals).

The forthcoming training program will follow a religious syllabus curated by esteemed seers. During this phase, candidates will receive free lodging, meals, and a stipend of Rs 2,000.

In a previous announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed his invitation from the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Trust to inaugurate the Ram Temple on January 22, 2024, in Ayodhya. Expressing his emotions, PM Modi conveyed his gratitude and anticipation for witnessing this historic event firsthand.

As Ayodhya gears up for this monumental event, the meticulous selection and training of priests underscore the dedication and meticulousness being infused into the sanctity of the Ram Lalla temple's forthcoming services.