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Books > Religion & Spirituality > Aspects of religions (non-Christian) > Religious institutions & organizations > Religious & spiritual leaders
Much has changed for the priests at the Minakshi Temple, one of
the most famous Hindu temples in India. In "The Renewal of the
Priesthood," C. J. Fuller traces their improving fortunes over the
past 25 years. This fluidly written book is unique in showing that
traditionalism and modernity are actually reinforcing each other
among these priests, a process in which the state has played a
crucial role.
Since the mid-1980s, growing urban affluence has seen more
people spend more money on rituals in the Minakshi Temple, which is
in the southern city of Madurai. The priests have thus become
better-off, and some have also found new earnings opportunities in
temples as far away as America. During the same period, due partly
to growing Hindu nationalism in India, the Tamilnadu state
government's religious policies have become more favorable toward
Hinduism and Brahman temple priests. More priests' sons now study
in religious schools where they learn authoritative Sanskrit ritual
texts by heart, and overall educational standards have markedly
improved.
Fuller shows that the priests have become more "professional"
and modern-minded while also insisting on the legitimacy of
tradition. He concludes by critiquing the analysis of modernity and
tradition in social science. In showing how the priests are
authentic representatives of modern India, this book tells a story
whose significance extends far beyond the confines of the Minakshi
Temple itself.
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