Key facts
- A simple Satyanarayan Puja in the US can cost between Rs 28,000 and Rs 33,000.
- Temples may charge separate fees ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000 for services.
- Hindu priests often use R-1 visas to work in the United States.
- Demand for priests increases during festivals and special occasions.
- Social media users expressed surprise and humor regarding the reported earnings.
A viral video by US-based content creator Sarika Yadav has shed light on the potential earnings of Hindu priests, known as pandit jis, in America. Yadav shared in an Instagram video that a simple Satyanarayan Puja conducted at a family home can cost between Rs 28,000 and Rs 33,000, significantly higher than charges in India. She also noted that temples might impose additional fees ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000 for certain services. Many priests reportedly use R-1 visas, designed for religious workers, to relocate to the US, where they can achieve a good life and earn well, despite initial struggles.
The revelation has sparked widespread discussion online, with many social media users expressing surprise and humor. Some have joked about switching careers from tech to priesthood, while others have shared anecdotes of high charges, including one claim of a priest in California arriving by helicopter and charging up to Rs 2.5 lakh. However, some commenters cautioned against simply converting dollar earnings to rupees. The demand for priests is noted to be particularly high during festivals and special occasions throughout the year.