Mohit Pandey: The upcoming inauguration of the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, set for November 24, 2024, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signals a significant pilgrimage site for millions of followers. Learn about the rigorous selection of priests and their intensive training for this monumental religious center.
Monumental Significance in Ayodhya
Ayodhya’s Ram Temple, a significant pilgrimage for millions, is on the brink of transformation after an enduring wait of nearly 500 years. Scheduled for inauguration on November 24, 2024, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the temple’s sanctum will witness the installation of the deity Ramalala on January 22, 2024. Amid elaborate rituals, 20 priests have undergone stringent selection, including Mohit Pandey, a native of Lucknow, among others.
Stringent Priest Selection Process
With over 3,000 applications nationwide, Mohit Pandey, currently pursuing an Acharya course at Shri Venkateswara Vedic University, Tirupati, faced a rigorous selection process to become a priest at Ayodhya’s Ram Temple. The extensive process shortlisted 200 applicants based on their education and experience, eventually narrowing it down to 50 top candidates through interviews, each receiving an appointment letter for the prestigious role.
Intensive 6-Month Training
Responsibility for candidate selection was entrusted to saints Jayakant Mishra of Vrindavan, and Ayodhya’s Mahants Satyanarayan Das and Nandini Sharan. The chosen candidates are currently undergoing a mandatory six-month training period to refine their abilities, ensuring precise and dedicated performance of their duties. Adequate resources are being provided to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
Educational Background of Mohit Pandey
Mohit Pandey, currently training for the priest position at the Ram Temple, pursued studies in Samaveda and earned a degree from Shri Venkateswara Vedic University after completing his Acharya course. He is now preparing for a Ph.D. following seven years of studying religious practices at Dudheshwar Veda Vidya Peeth for the past seven years, where students have been acquiring Vedic education for the last 23 years.
Revised Compensation and Employment
As per Dr. Anil Mishra, a member of the Shri Ram Temple Trust, applicants for the priest role must be between 20 to 30 years old. Following appointment, head priests will receive a salary of ₹32,900, while assistant priests will be entitled to ₹31,000 monthly. This marks an increase from the previous salary of ₹25,000 and ₹20,000, respectively, for these roles.
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