In a significant move to prepare for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela, the Maharashtra government's Skill Development Department has initiated specialized short-term courses in religious rituals. The department has launched training programs in Puja Vidhi (ritual procedures) and Paurohit (priestly) services in the city of Nashik, where the massive religious congregation is scheduled for 2027.
Bridging Tradition and Employment
The core aim of this initiative is to create a pool of trained individuals who can expertly perform various religious ceremonies and priestly duties. These services will be in exceptionally high demand during the Kumbh Mela, which attracts millions of pilgrims. The concept was spearheaded by Mangal Prabhat Lodha, the state's Minister for Skill Development, Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation.
Under this plan, a focused 21-day workshop has been organized. This intensive training is set to begin on December 16 at the Shri Swami Akhandanand Veda Vedang Sanskrit College in Nashik. The program is designed to be a joint effort between the state's skill department and the Kavi Kulaguru Kalidas Sanskrit University located in Ramtek.
Curriculum Designed for Practical Expertise
The course curriculum is comprehensive, blending scriptural knowledge with hands-on practice to ensure participants are fully prepared. Key components of the training include:
- The scriptural and scientific significance of the Kumbh Mela.
- Detailed procedures for Simhastha Puja Vidhi, penance, chanting, and sacred bathing at pilgrimage sites.
- Recitation of important texts like the Shanti Sukta.
- Vedic and Puranic methods of worship, including specific rituals like Godavari Puja, Dashavidhi Snan, Vishnu Puja, Gau-Daan, and Tarpan.
The total course duration is one month, comprising 45 hours of training split into four distinct phases. Each phase carries an assessment weightage of 25 marks. Evaluation of participants will be continuous, based on weekly oral tests and multiple-choice question papers. Successful candidates will receive a certificate upon meeting the required performance and attendance criteria.
A Model for Skill and Heritage
Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha emphasized the dual benefit of the program. He stated that participants will gain deep knowledge of Vedic and Puranic traditions, understand the significance of rituals, learn deity worship methods as prescribed in scriptures, and master correct pronunciation. This knowledge is not just spiritual but also vocational.
"This knowledge will also open up new employment opportunities for them," Lodha highlighted. He further added that the initiative stands as an effective model for skill development while simultaneously playing a crucial role in preserving the nation's rich cultural and religious heritage. The move strategically addresses the anticipated need for skilled ritual practitioners during the 2027 Simhastha, ensuring the mela is conducted with traditional authenticity and efficiency.
