56th temple worship training camp for village temple priests inaugurated in Rameswaram
Rameswaram, June 30
Thousands of priests have been trained in the mantras, abhishekam, decoration methods, Thevaram, Thiruvasakam, and Divyaprabandham of various deities. Since 1990, a total of 55 training camps have been conducted so far.
The inaugural ceremony of the 56th temple worship training camp for village temple priests, organised by the Village Temple Priests' Association, commenced at the Rameswaram Goswami Math-2. The event was held under the leadership of the association's trustee, R.R. Gopalji, and began with a ritual worship led by the camp's associate acharya, poet Vasantha Jagatheesan.
T Sudhakaran, the Ramanathapuram District Organiser of the Village Temple Priests' Association, delivered the welcome address, while the State Organiser, S Somasundaram, presented the introductory address.
Following an explanation of the camp's objectives by the main acharya, Rameswaram S. Bakshisivam, felicitation addresses were delivered by several dignitaries. These included Dr. V. Srivatsan, President of the Chennai Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission; M Sudalai, Seva Bharathi District Vice President (Rameswaram); RG Ramasuppu, State Joint General Secretary; and Advocate K Vijayakumar, Coimbatore State Joint General Secretary.
The benediction address was delivered by Thavathiru Kumaragurupara Swamigal of the Siravai Aadheenam, Gaumara Monastery, Saravanampatti, Coimbatore.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While preserving religious practices is important, I wonder if the article could have highlighted any modern challenges these priests face. Still, it's impressive to see 56 camps and counting—this is true seva for our culture.
As someone interested in Indian culture, this is fascinating. The level of detail in training—covering mantras, abhishekam, and even Thevaram—shows how deeply rooted temple traditions are in daily life. Hope these traditions continue for generations.
I've visited Rameswaram temple, and the priests there have always been knowledgeable and humble. These camps will only enhance their skills. But I hope the article mentioned that not all village temples can afford to send priests—maybe the association can offer scholarships? Just a thought. 🙏
Interesting to see the collaboration between different organizations—Seva Bharathi, Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission, and the temple association. This shows how community institutions work together for spiritual and social causes. The priest training is really a community service.
More camps like these across different states would be great! Our village temple in Tamil Nadu has an elderly priest who has no one to replace him. Hopefully these trained priests will serve villages that need them most. 🌺
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