pujaris
A pujarī, often anglicized as pujari, is a priest who conducts Hindu worship rituals, or puja, in temples and, in some cases, in private homes. The term derives from Sanskrit puja, meaning worship, with a suffix that denotes an agent or practitioner. In many temple contexts the pujarī is also referred to as archaka, a title that denotes the performer of daily rites.
Duties and functions typically include overseeing and conducting daily worship services, performing ritual bathing and anointing
Qualifications and training for pujaris vary by tradition and region. Many acquire knowledge through informal apprenticeships
Regional variation and social context also shape the role of the pujarī. In India and neighboring regions,