MISCELLANEOUS OCCUPATIONS

RELIGIOUS PROFESSION

The number of priests, preceptors, and monks rendering religious and allied services was 677 as per 1961 Census.

The advance of science and the development of materialistic attitude of the people have adversely affected this profession which was once respected with high regard. Vulnerability of persons belonging to the priestly profession, is also one of the reasons of its declining importance. Naturally the number of persons following this profession has considerably reduced. The general social conditions prevailing today have also affected the number of the new entrants in the profession. The earnings of this class have gone down to a great extent. Their superiority and guidance is no more cared for. In rural areas at the time of marriage ceremonies and some other important festivals the earnings of the priest may amount to Rs. 20 and Rs. 30. In urban areas they are slightly higher ranging from Rs. 30 to Rs. 50. As a source of stable income it has now become difficult to rely upon this profession. Hence the younger generation instead of following the once respected ancestral profession is taking to other suitable vocations.

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