Excelsior Correspondent
KATRA, Mar 5: A nine-day free Skill Enhancement Training Programme on Vedic rituals for local Pujaris, organized by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) concluded today at SMVD Gurukul.
The programme commenced on February 25, 2026 as per the directions of the Chairman, SMVDSB (Lt Governor, JK-UT), with the objective of enhancing the skills of Pujaris in the proper conduct of religious rituals and ceremonies, besides preserving traditional practices (Karam Kand) and cultural values.
A total of 13 (thirteen) Pujaris/Archaks participated in the training programme. The participants hailed from various areas including Sarsu (Udhampur), Painthal (Katra), Suketar, Hansali (Katra), Dhansal (Katra), Channi (Mansar), Talwara (Reasi) and Purana Darood, among others.
The programme was designed to strengthen the participants’ understanding of various Vedic rituals, mantras and traditional practices essential for performing religious ceremonies. It also aimed at imparting a systematic and professional approach towards the performance of Pujan Vidhi. The training curriculum covered a range of subjects including introduction to Panchang, knowledge of Muhurat (auspicious timings), pronunciation of Mantras and Shlokas among other important aspects of Vedic ritual practices.
To achieve the objectives of the programme, experienced and qualified faculty members and scholars of Vedic studies from the Shrine Board’s Pujari Wing and SMVD Gurukul conducted the training sessions.
The participants described the programme as highly informative and enriching, providing them with deeper insights into Vedic scriptures as well as practical knowledge applicable in their day-to-day religious duties. Interactive question-and-answer sessions held during the programme encouraged active participation and highlighted the need for organizing such training programmes on a regular basis to further strengthen the knowledge and capabilities of Pujaris.
The Administrator, SMVD Gurukul, who attended the valedictory session, stated that the training programme was organized to give a much-needed impetus to temple-related activities and to further strengthen the traditional knowledge and skills of local Pujaris. Certificates were also distributed to the participants during the concluding ceremony.
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