Taking Hinduism Abroad: VHP To Start Schools To Train Priests To Work In Foreign Countries, Will Teach English And Computers

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) is preparing to start a special school to train pujaris and archaks (priests). This school will be established in Ayodhya and will focus on training priests to work in temples abroad.

VHP president Alok Kumar explained that the decision is based on the concerns of Hindus living in foreign countries who do not find knowledgeable priests well-versed in Vedas and Puranas there.

Another special school is planned in Faridabad where priests will be taught elementary English and computers to help them engage and gel well with youngsters for propagating Indian culture and Sanatan Dharma among the latter.

"It is the duty of a priest to inspire people to follow their religion and for this, the priests have to know the language spoken by the audience. Hence this special school will help us in training priests accordingly," Kumar said.

"There is a great demand for trained priests in Hindu temples abroad" who can recite verses from Hindu religious texts, Kumar said adding that the execution of the plan is likely to start from Deepawali.

The first batch will include 30 students. They will be admitted from 'Ved Vidyalayas' run by the VHP and other like-minded bodies. The two schools will impart training free of cost and will also offer boarding facilities.

The VHP is also collaborating with a government-accredited university to provide certification for priests trained by it in these two schools, The Hindu reported.