THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, INDIA, May 23, 2011 (Deccan Chronicle): The priest of a Hindu temple (Santhikkaran in Malayalam) may be an intermediary of the Divine inside the sanctum sanctorum, but is not even considered a worthy groom outside it. Hundreds of young priests in temples of South Kerala are in distress because no family is willing to give them a bride. “They are in a very sad situation,” said Akkeraman Kalidasa Bhattathiripad, president of the Yogakshema Sabha.
Thanks to the measly pay (about US$111 per month) and low official grade, priests don’t get suitable brides. Distressed by this, the Sabha has decided to conduct on-the-spot Veli (marriage) at its Fest 2011 to be held at the Kottarakkara Brahmana Samooha Mathom on May 29 and 30.
“We will bring families of young men and women together and will also arrange a panel of astrologers to examine horoscopes,” said Mr Muraleedhara Bhattathiri, chairman of the fest. The sabha has also decided to set up a trade union of priests which will be given final shape at the fest.