POOJARY- POOJA

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Purohitas of Billava caste/ Poojary Caste

 
Poojary (sometimes spelled Poojari) means "worshipper". In the past the Poojary played an important role in Bhuta Kola (Nema), a practice seen amongst tribal communities in Tulunadu. This subgroup is responsible for building temples and other places of worship, and their worship is known as poojas.
In the Last years Poojary Caste/ Billava caste boys are going for Learning Purohita. So we can find many Purohitas of Billava caste now a days.

Poojaries / Purohitas in Kudroli Temple

 All the Purohitas offering pooja at Kudroli Gokarnanatheshwara Temple are Billava Caste Purohitas

Purohitas of the Billava Caste: Custodians of Rituals and Tradition

The Billava community, primarily concentrated in coastal Karnataka and parts of northern Kerala, has a rich cultural heritage with deep spiritual roots. Among its members, Purohitas (temple priests) and Poojaris play a vital role in preserving religious practices, family rituals, and temple traditions.

Who Are the Purohitas / Poojaris in the Billava Community?

In the Billava caste, Purohitas or Poojaris are the trained priests responsible for performing religious ceremonies, temple rituals, and family sacraments. Unlike other communities where priesthood may be hereditary among Brahmins, the Billava Purohitas hold a unique position, blending spiritual duties with community service.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

  1. Temple Rituals and Worship – Conducting daily poojas, offering prayers, and maintaining temple sanctity.

  2. Family Ceremonies – Performing weddings, naming ceremonies, thread ceremonies, and ancestral rites (shraddha).

  3. Spiritual Guidance – Educating families on religious texts, rituals, and moral values.

  4. Community Leadership – Actively participating in festivals, cultural events, and guiding the younger generation in traditional practices.

Training and Expertise

Becoming a Billava Purohita involves:

  • Study of Scriptures and Rituals – Learning Vedic mantras, temple procedures, and family rites.

  • Apprenticeship – Practicing under senior priests to gain hands-on experience.

  • Community Recognition – Many families recognize trained Purohitas as custodians of family and temple rituals.

This combination of knowledge, practice, and community trust ensures that the spiritual heritage of the Billava caste is preserved.

Significance in Modern Times

Even today, Billava Purohitas are central to the religious and cultural life of the community. They:

  • Ensure that temples run smoothly with correct rituals.

  • Help families maintain traditional ceremonies according to Kula Kasubu (lineage rules).

  • Act as mentors and educators, teaching younger generations about spiritual and cultural values.

Connecting with Billava Purohitas

For families seeking safe and respectful guidance in religious ceremonies or matrimonial rituals, consulting a Billava Purohita / Poojari is considered essential. Many Purohitas are now accessible through community networks, online platforms, and local temples, making it easier to connect while respecting tradition.

 

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