Vellalars and Pariahs are the priests who belong to the low castes. Pariahs are closely connected with Jagannath Temple in Puri. Now they are the priest of celebrated temples like that of Kanchipuram, Kumbakonam and Srivalli-puttur. The main responsibility of the chief priest and his assistants is to maintain the spiritual atmosphere of the temple. The chief priest forms a strict code of conduct, which should be followed by all other priests and the devotees. All the priests are expected to lead a very strict and pure life. They should know all the rituals and ceremonies associated with the temple worship and festivities. All the rules concerning personal and ceremonial purity should be observed by the priests of the temple. They should perform the worship with faith and devotion. But the priests are not allowed to misuse the temple property in any way. In brief, they must protect the temple properties. The priest should have real concern for the devotees and should treat them with sympathy and understanding. They are expected to be broadminded and a liberal outlook should be an additional qualification for modern priests. This article is a stub. You can enrich by adding more information to it. Send your Write Up to content@indianetzone.com |