Free Temples from Govt Control, Says Kanchi Seer, Unveiling ‘Praja-Purohit-Pujari’ Model.

Kanchi Shankaracharya Calls for Temple Autonomy, Suggests Collaborative Management by Devotees, Priests, and Caretakers abolishing Govt control.  

Upendra Bharti |HENB | Prayagraj |  Feb 25, 2025:: Jagadguru Shri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi, the 70th Acharya of Shri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, Kanchipuram, has advocated for handing over temples and their properties to their respective authorities, thereby freeing them from government control.

Speaking on the occasion of Maha Kumbh 2025, Vijayendra Saraswathi noted, “In every Kumbh at Prayagraj, various demands raised have been fulfilled over time. The voice for the Ram Temple was raised in 2013, and now the demand to free all temples from government control has echoed in Maha Kumbh 2025.”

The Jagadguru emphasized the need for temples to be restored to their former glory, with proper puja conducted and all offerings utilized for the temple’s benefit. He demanded that all temples, from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, along with their land, assets, and holdings, should be the sole property of the temple concerned.

Vijayendra Saraswathi proposed that temple income be utilized for propagating Sanatan Dharma, supporting Vedic education, establishing Gurukuls, opening Gaushalas, and promoting classical music. He advocated for a collaborative system involving Praja (devotees), Purohit (priests), and Pujari (temple caretakers), which would uplift not only temples but also Sanatan Dharma.

The Jagadguru further suggested that every panchayat should have a pujari, and every village should have a temple like Tirupati, fostering a stronger connection between the community and the temple.

Acharya Vijayendra Saraswathi emphasized that youngsters are indeed inclined towards faith, as evident from their massive participation in the Maha Kumbh, where they showcased absolute devotion. He stressed that the country has “aastha” (faith), but lacks “sanstha” (organization) and “vyavastha” (rules and regulations).

The Acharya highlighted the crucial role of families in conserving Sanatan Dharma and saving democracy. He emphasized that India’s safety is paramount for global peace and that propagating Sanatan Dharma is essential for the country’s strength.

To achieve this, Vijayendra Saraswathi advocated for youth involvement in every sphere and urged the government to start preparing for the next Maha Kumbh. He suggested documenting the achievements and lessons learned from this Maha Kumbh, incorporating experiences from adjacent states like Bihar and Madhya Pradesh.

The Acharya praised the state government’s efforts, noting the transformation of Prayagraj’s airport into a “Viman kaa Mandap” and the presence of the Shankar Viman Mandapam temple. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also recognized Vijayendra Saraswathi’s efforts to strengthen Sanatan Vaidik Hindu Dharma.

…

_Agency inputs.