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Vedic Training for Pujaris Concludes at Mata Vaishno Devi Gurukul

A skill enhancement programme for local Pujaris, focused on Vedic rituals and traditional practices, concluded at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Gurukul in Katra. The nine-day free training, which began on February 25, aimed to enhance the priests' skills in conducting religious ceremonies and preserving cultural values. Thirteen participants from areas around Reasi and Udhampur districts received instruction on mantras, auspicious timings, and correct ritual procedures from experienced scholars. The programme concluded with a valedictory session where certificates were distributed to the participants.

Key Points: Skill Enhancement for Pujaris Ends at Vaishno Devi Gurukul

  • Free nine-day Vedic training
  • Aimed at preserving traditional rituals
  • Covered mantras, Muhurat & Panchang
  • 13 Pujaris from various areas participated
  • Certificates distributed at conclusion
2 min read

Skill enhancement programme for Pujaris concludes at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Gurukul

A nine-day Vedic rituals training programme for local priests concludes at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Gurukul in Katra, Jammu & Kashmir.

"informative and enriching - Programme Participants"

Jammu, March 5

A skill enhancement programme organised by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board for local Pujaris concluded on Thursday at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Gurukul in Katra town of Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district.

The nine-day free skill enhancement training programme on Vedic rituals was organised for local Pujaris at the SMVD Gurukul and concluded amid the chanting of Vedic mantras.

The programme commenced on February 25, 2026, under the directions of the Chairman of SMVDSB, the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, with the objective of enhancing the skills of Pujaris in the proper conduct of religious rituals and ceremonies, besides preserving traditional practices (Karam Kand) and cultural values.

A total of 13 Pujaris and Archaks participated in the training programme. The participants came from various areas including Sarsu (Udhampur), Painthal (Katra), Suketar, Hansali (Katra), Dhansal (Katra), Channi (Mansar), Talwara (Reasi) and Purana Darood, among others.

The programme was designed to strengthen the participants' understanding of various Vedic rituals, mantras and traditional practices essential for performing religious ceremonies.

It also aimed to impart a systematic and professional approach to the performance of Pujan Vidhi.

The training curriculum covered a range of subjects including an introduction to Panchang, knowledge of Muhurat (auspicious timings), and correct pronunciation of mantras and shlokas, among other aspects of Vedic ritual practices.

Experienced and qualified faculty members and scholars of Vedic studies from the Shrine Board's Pujari Wing and the SMVD Gurukul conducted the training sessions.

Participants described the programme as informative and enriching, saying it provided deeper insights into Vedic scriptures as well as practical knowledge applicable in their day-to-day religious duties.

Interactive question-and-answer sessions held during the programme encouraged active participation and highlighted the need to organise such training programmes regularly to further strengthen the knowledge and capabilities of Pujaris.

The Administrator of SMVD Gurukul, who attended the valedictory session, said the training programme was organised to give impetus to temple-related activities and further strengthen the traditional knowledge and skills of local Pujaris.

He congratulated the participants for successfully completing the programme and appreciated the resource persons for their contribution in imparting the training.

Certificates were also distributed to the participants during the concluding ceremony.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's heartening to see such programmes being organised. The correct pronunciation of mantras is crucial, and this training will definitely enhance the spiritual experience for devotees visiting the shrine.
R
Rohit P
Great step for skill development, even in religious fields. Hope they expand this to include more Pujaris from remote areas. The focus on Muhurat and Panchang is very practical knowledge.
S
Sarah B
As someone interested in Hindu traditions, I find this fascinating. It's important to maintain the authenticity of ancient practices. Kudos to the organizers for this effort.
V
Vikram M
A very good programme, but only 13 participants? The Vaishno Devi shrine is one of the most visited in India. They should scale this up significantly to have a wider impact.
K
Kavya N
This is the real "Skill India" in action! Preserving our ancient knowledge systems and providing professional training to those who uphold our traditions. More power to the Gurukul and the Shrine Board. 👏

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