Maharashtra Launches 'Purohit' Course for Kumbh Mela 2027 Amid Opposition

• Maharashtra government initiated a 'Purohit-Kanishtha Sahayak Purohit' course for Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027 in Trimbakeshwar-Nashik.
• The 21-day course, developed by the Skill Development Department and Kavikulguru Kalidas Sanskrit University, is open to all communities aged 12-45.
• It teaches Vedic rituals, mantra chanting, and Hindu rites, with a certificate upon completion for performing or assisting priests.
• Skill Development Minister Mangalprabhat Lodha announced the employment-oriented course; a separate 10-day Kumbh-specific training is planned.
• Some 'purohits' oppose the course, arguing Vedic rituals require "Upnayana Sanskar" and "Yadnopavit," and question the short training duration.

Why It Matters: Maharashtra's new 'Purohit' course for Kumbh Mela faces traditionalist opposition over eligibility.