1. How long have you been a Hindu Priest?
I started learning when I was 10 years old in 1995, by 2007 I completed my studies To become
a priest. I then went on to studying a Higher Diploma in Veda to gain a wholistic and complete
knowledge. I am so passionate to share this knowledge, and teach the generation of today in
a meaningful and transparent way, so they are able to transfer this to their daily lives and
understand the principles of the rituals in a methodical way.
2. What made you become a priest?
As a young child I would go with my grandfather he was a Hindu priest. Priesthood has been
in our family for five generations my father, uncle and brother also followed this path. At a
young age I wanted to follow in my families footsteps. I found it very interesting when they
would perform poojas and meet people and this grew my interest in this area, soaking up the
knowledge, and working with families.
3. Where and what did you study to become a priest?
I studied in Nashik, Maharashtra India. In a Gurukul called Swami Ankandanand Ved Vidyalaya
(Kailash Math) Panchavati.
4. What do you feel is the most important part of the Hindu religion?
BELIEIVNG, Whatever you do in our Hindu culture you must believe in it. If you have the
foundation of belief you will then trust and understand, and practise, which will lead you on
the path to fulfilment.
5. How do you see Hinduism incorporated by youngsters in daily life?
“Sanskar”-Respect your elders and teachers. They will show you value from their own experiences, and lead you to make the right choices.
6. What do you feel the generation of today should learn and practise?
Read and understand the principles and teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, for every perspective
of your life. Life will be full of joy, purpose and fulfilment.
7. What key messages would you give to live a happy and content life?
Trust, Truth, practicing yoga and prayers.
“One whose happiness is within, who is active and rejoices within, and whose aim is inward is
actually the perfect mystic. He is liberated in the supreme and ultimately he attains the
Supreme” Bhagavad Gita [5.24]
Interview by Sunita Shah
