Latest news with #Archakas
The Hindu
09-07-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
How a high-level panel laid the blueprint for inclusive Archaka appointments to Tamil Nadu's HR&CE temples
Nearly 55 years ago, on December 2, 1970, the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly passed a historic amendment to the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Act, 1959, formally abolishing the hereditary priesthood system and opening the doors for qualified individuals from all castes to become temple priests. However, the intent of this reform was not fully realised due to the absence of a clear framework and persistent legal challenges. Although the amended provisions came into effect the following year, no enabling mechanism was put in place to ensure the appointment of trained Archakas (temple priests). The matter continued to face judicial scrutiny until the Supreme Court, in its 2002 ruling in the N. Adithayan vs Travancore Devaswom Board case, held that caste-based restrictions on the appointment of Archakas were unconstitutional, emphasising that only qualification and training should determine eligibility. On May 23, 2006, soon after the M. Karunanidhi government was formed in Tamil Nadu, it chose to act on this Supreme Court order. The government issued an order allowing any Hindu, regardless of caste, to become an Archaka in temples administered by the HR&CE department, provided they had the required training. To implement this order, it constituted a seven-member high-level committee on June 10, 2006, under the chairmanship of Justice (Retired) A.K. Rajan. The committee was tasked with framing recommendations regarding the age and education criteria, syllabus design, training duration, and suitable locations for setting up Archaka training institutes. Course of action The committee undertook an extensive consultative process. It held regular meetings, engaged with heads of various Mutts and Agama scholars, and studied the functioning of private training centres. Field visits to major temples were conducted to interact with practising Archakas and gather insights. The committee also reviewed the legal provisions governing Archaka appointments. It noted that while the HR&CE Act, 1959, does not lay down specific qualifications for the post, Rule 12 of the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious Institutions (Officers and Servants) Service Rules provides guidance for such appointments. The committee also referred to a series of Supreme Court judgments, including the Seshammal case (1972), Narayana Dikshitalu case (1996), and Adithayan case (2002), that affirmed the primacy of Agamic rules in temples constructed or maintained according to Agamic traditions. The committee extensively examined various Agamas and observed in its review that nowhere in the Agamas, it is stated that only persons of a particular caste can perform pujas. There is no authority supporting caste-based restrictions on who can serve as Archakas in Saivite, Vaishnavite, or Amman temples. Pointing out that a particular caste or descendants of a particular caste had been performing pujas in the past, it cannot be said that they alone have the right to perform pujas, the committee observed, adding the essential qualification for an Archaka is knowledge of Agama practices specific to the temple, the correct method of performing rituals (including daily and special poojas), and mastery of the required mantras. Eligibility criteria Proficiency in temple procedures, from opening to closing, is considered the core eligibility criterion. However, the committee observed that denominational alignment remains necessary. It said only Saivites should serve in Saivite temples and Vaishnavites in Vaishnavite temples. The committee laid down elaborate eligibility criteria for Hindus from all castes to be appointed as Archakas. It suggested that candidates seeking admission to Archaka training centres should be between 14 and 24 years of age and have completed Class VIII to serve in HR&CE managed temples. A separate training institute was proposed for individuals above 24 years to facilitate them in undergoing training to serve in temples outside the HR&CE control. They should have completed Class V. The committee recommended establishing Saivite training centres in Chennai, Madurai, Palani, Tiruchendur, Kumbakonam, Thiruvannamalai, and Perur. Vaishnavite centres were proposed for Chennai, Srirangam, Kancheepuram, Alagarkoil (Madurai), and Srivilliputhur. A special centre for trainees above 24 years of age was suggested at Tiruchirapalli. A one-year training course would qualify candidates to serve as basic Archakas in small temples or assistants in larger temples. A more advanced three-year course would be required to perform elaborate rituals and special pujas. Saivite Archakas will be classified as Archaka, Gurukal, and Senior Gurukal, while Vaishnavite Archakas as Bala Pattar, Pattar, and Pattacharyar. Those with one-year training may serve as Archakas/Bala Pattars in small temples or assist in larger temples under senior guidance. Three-year trained individuals may serve as Gurukals/Pattars, handling all rituals under the supervision of senior Archakas. Senior Gurukal/Pattacharyar will be a promotional post, based on experience and seniority. Trainees must maintain strict discipline, including vegetarianism, abstention from alcohol, and wearing simple white attire or a standard uniform during the training period, the committee said. The syllabus proposed by the committee includes training in Agamic procedures, Tamil devotional literature, Grantham, astrology, temple duties, and social values. The curriculum prioritises Tamil as the language of worship and instruction, while ensuring that Sanskrit texts are translated and taught. Training modules would be tailored for one-year, three-year, and refresher courses with a focus on practical ritual performance. Examinations will be conducted annually by the Commissioner for one-year, three-year, and refresher courses, with separate patterns for Saivite and Vaishnavite sections. Certificates and degrees issued will qualify candidates for appointment as Archakas in HR&CE-managed temples, including those from recognised private institutions. Existing Archakas without formal certification need only complete the refresher course to continue service, the committee said. It also insisted that admissions must follow the communal reservation policy of the Tamil Nadu government. To support trainees aged below 24 years, the committee recommended a monthly stipend of ₹500, along with food, uniforms, and accommodation, free of cost. Following the committee's report, between 2007 and 2008, 206 individuals from various castes were trained as priests for major Saivite and Vaishnavite temples. However, the training programme was discontinued after the first batch graduated. Nearly a decade later, T. Marichamy became the first among the trained priests to be appointed by the HR&CE department, taking charge at the Ayyappan Temple in Tallakulam, Madurai.
Hans India
06-07-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
United Archakas of Jogulamba Gadwal Convene to Address Pending Salaries and Plan for Statewide Yagam in Hyderabad
A significant meeting of temple priests (Archakas) from various mandals across Jogulamba Gadwal district was held today at the sacred premises of Swayambhu Lakshmi Venkateshwara Swamy Temple. The meeting was organized under the leadership of the district president of the Archaka Samakhya, Sri Chakravarthi Acharya. Archakas from Gattu, Maldakal, Gadwal, Rajoli, Manavapadu, and several other mandals actively participated in the discussion. The primary agenda was to address the long-standing issue of non-payment of four months' salaries to Archakas. The participants collectively voiced their concerns and sought a prompt resolution from the authorities. During the meeting, the upcoming state-level Yagam scheduled to be held on July 14th, 15th, and 16th in Hyderabad was discussed in detail. This religious event will be organized under the leadership of State President Vasudeva Sharma. In accordance with his instructions, a preparatory meeting of the Archaka Samakhya was held at the Maldakal Thimmappa Swamy Temple under the supervision of district president Chakravarthi. Chakravarthi Acharya earnestly appealed to all temple priests across Jogulamba Gadwal district to attend and extend their support to the statewide Yagam in Hyderabad. He emphasized that the united participation of all Archakas would showcase their solidarity and spiritual strength. In recognition of his services and leadership, the district Archakas felicitated Sri Chakravarthi Acharya upon his nomination as a DDNS (Dhoopa Deepa Naivedyam Scheme) Select Committee Member. Archakas from various mandals came together to honor him and convey their best wishes. The event witnessed the participation of several prominent figures including Maldakal Mandal President Sri Baburao, Sri Shravan, Archakas from Gattu and Maldakal, as well as presidents and representatives of various mandals' Archaka associations. The meeting highlighted the importance of unity among temple priests and underscored the need to ensure timely disbursement of their rightful dues, while also preparing for larger religious responsibilities at the state level.
Hans India
06-07-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Awaaz Committee Launches Statewide Awareness Yatra in Gattu to Safeguard Minority Rights
A significant meeting of temple priests (Archakas) from various mandals across Jogulamba Gadwal district was held today at the sacred premises of Swayambhu Lakshmi Venkateshwara Swamy Temple. The meeting was organized under the leadership of the district president of the Archaka Samakhya, Sri Chakravarthi Acharya. Archakas from Gattu, Maldakal, Gadwal, Rajoli, Manavapadu, and several other mandals actively participated in the discussion. The primary agenda was to address the long-standing issue of non-payment of four months' salaries to Archakas. The participants collectively voiced their concerns and sought a prompt resolution from the authorities. During the meeting, the upcoming state-level Yagam scheduled to be held on July 14th, 15th, and 16th in Hyderabad was discussed in detail. This religious event will be organized under the leadership of State President Vasudeva Sharma. In accordance with his instructions, a preparatory meeting of the Archaka Samakhya was held at the Maldakal Thimmappa Swamy Temple under the supervision of district president Chakravarthi. Chakravarthi Acharya earnestly appealed to all temple priests across Jogulamba Gadwal district to attend and extend their support to the statewide Yagam in Hyderabad. He emphasized that the united participation of all Archakas would showcase their solidarity and spiritual strength. In recognition of his services and leadership, the district Archakas felicitated Sri Chakravarthi Acharya upon his nomination as a DDNS (Dhoopa Deepa Naivedyam Scheme) Select Committee Member. Archakas from various mandals came together to honor him and convey their best wishes. The event witnessed the participation of several prominent figures including Maldakal Mandal President Sri Baburao, Sri Shravan, Archakas from Gattu and Maldakal, as well as presidents and representatives of various mandals' Archaka associations. The meeting highlighted the importance of unity among temple priests and underscored the need to ensure timely disbursement of their rightful dues, while also preparing for larger religious responsibilities at the state level.
Hans India
21-06-2025
- General
- Hans India
Welfare Fund turns a boon for archakas, temple staff in state
As many as 18 Archakas and temple employees got over Rs 32 lakh under gratuity and medical benefits, thanks to the Archaka and Employees Welfare Fund started by the Endowments Department recently. Some of the employees got a benefit ranging from Rs 1 lakh to over Rs 6.5 lakh. The Archakas hailed the Endowments Minister Konda Surekha, stating that she had fulfilled the desires of priests and employees who have been working in the Endowment Department over the years. A special fund was set up for the welfare of priests and employees who were providing services in all temples for a long time. Endowment Minister Konda Surekha, Endowment Director Venkata Rao and other officials handed over the Archaka and Employment Welfare Fund cheques. Gratuity and medical assistance were provided to 18 employees through the Archaka Welfare Fund Trust. Konda Surekha handed over the cheque of Rs 32 lakh to the employees. Copies of the order were given to them as a farewell. Later, the minister felicitated the retired employees. Surekha explained that her government was committed to the welfare of Archakas and employees. She said that about 13,700 Archakas and other employees working in temples up to the level of Assistant Commissioner under the Endowment Department would benefit through this welfare trust. She said that posthumous or retirement gratuity would be given to priests and other employees. She said that posthumous gratuity would be given to the 'Dhoopa Deepa Naivedyam' priests. She said that this fund would be used to pay ex-gratia paid posthumously and for the expenses of last rites. Under this fund, employees will be provided with medical reimbursement, marriage scheme, upanayana scheme, house construction, purchase and repair scheme, education scheme, financial assistance scheme for disabled employees who cannot perform their duties. 'We are indebted to Endowment Department Minister Surekhamma. Thank you Konda Surekha for resolving the issue which has been pending for years. The minister has helped us immensely. It is heartening to note that the posthumous or retirement gratuity scheme for regular priests and other employees has been increased from Rs 4 lakh lakh to Rs 8 lakh by the Welfare Board on May 28,' said an Archaka.
Hans India
13-06-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Christian leader accuses Jagan of betrayal; lauds Naidu's initiatives
Chebrolu (Guntur Dist): Prof Joseph Mosiganti, chairman of the Jesus Believers Association Council, on Thursday in a scathing statement accused former Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy of betraying the Christian community in the State. He claimed that despite Christians, who constitute 22-25 percent of the state's population, overwhelmingly supporting Jagan Mohan Reddy, he distanced himself from them for three and a half years to avoid a 'Christian label.' He alleged that Jagan then sent Vimala Reddy to once again deceive Christians as elections approached. Prof Joseph highlighted several key areas where the current NDA government has purportedly shown greater commitment to the Christian community. The previous Jagan government reduced the validity of marriage licenses for pastors to three years, a lifetime license previously. The current coalition government has now extended this to 10 years. Jagan Mohan Reddy's administration closed down 12,000 aided schools. In contrast, Nara Lokesh has ordered an inquiry into this matter. The Jagan Mohan Reddy government allocated only Rs 30,000 per district for Christmas celebrations. The Chandrababu Naidu government has allocated Rs 1 lakh per district, with approximately Rs 30 lakh sanctioned overall. A GO has been issued for land acquisition for Christian burial grounds across the state. Alongside Archakas and Mullahs, Christian pastors have received approximately Rs 30 crore in aid. For five years under the previous government, no funds were allocated for church repairs or subsidised loans. The Chandrababu Naidu government has now specifically allocated a budget for both subsidised loans and church repairs. He noted that under Jagan Mohan Reddy, Christian leaders and community members had very limited opportunities to meet with him.
