Now, pass competitive exam to qualify as priest in Rajasthan

Those interested in becoming priests at temples across the state will now have to clear a competitive examination to prove that they are competent enough for the job.

After almost 27 years, the state Devasthan Department has initiated recruitment for priests in this manner. The department has invited application for posts of 47 priests who will be deputed to perform religious ceremonies at temples running under government authority. Apart from this, applications have also been invited for 7 posts of managers and 11 posts of sewagirs.

According to the advertisement, becoming a priest will no longer only mean being capable of chanting mantras and performing rituals. Now, those hoping to make the cut will require a certain level of education; the minimum qualification is of senior secondary level (by a recognised board). Furthermore, to become a manager, a graduate degree is essential. 

The syllabus for the examination is similar to that of other competitive exams and includes subjects like general knowledge and geography. However, the syllabus, the department claims, is designed to suit the level of current priests and learners of Sanskrit literature and religious scriptures.

In fact, even those who are religiously inclined and chant prayers or shlokas at home will be comfortable with the syllabus level. Two sections, comprising 50 per cent of the total marks are dedicated to the knowledge of religious books and scriptures like the Ramayana and Vedas. “The syllabus has been set as per the requirement of job,” revealed a source to dna.

As per the advertisement, those interested can apply online by October 16. The written exam will be conducted on October 27. The permission letters are likely to be released by October 22.