India’s first temple management diploma blends tradition and technology

A unique academic programme seeks to revolutionise how sacred spaces are run. Temple Connect, a private initiative has launched India’s first-ever Postgraduate Diploma in Temple Management, blending age-old traditions with modern management techniques.

Temples are ecosystems that need to be managed efficiently. From handling millions of devotees to managing donations and implementing sustainable practices, running a temple in the 21st century is no small feat,” declares Giresh Kulkarni, Founder of Temple Connect.

Expansion planned

The innovative course, which kicked off its inaugural batches at the University of Mumbai and Welingkar Institute, plans to expand to Savitribai Phule Pune University and potentially 19 other institutions across India.

But what exactly does “temple management” entail? 

“We’re talking about queue management, disaster planning, fund management, and even technology integration,” he explains.

“Imagine handling 18 to 20 lakh people visiting the Siddhivinayak temple on a single Angarika day. That’s not just about devotion; that’s logistics,” says Kulkarni.

Ravindra Sangurde from Mumbai University says, “We talk about the financial management of temples, administrative work, Trust Acts, disaster management, and quality management in temples. For instance, how to maintain the quality of prasad.”

Easing experience

The six-month course is designed to be a crash course in divine administration.

Students will spend three months in intensive classroom training, followed by a three-month hands-on internship at various renowned temples.

“The faculty consists of seasoned professionals, all of whom have substantial practical experience in temple operations,” Sangurde adds.

 From financial management and administrative duties to disaster management and quality control, the course covers it all.

Kulkarni emphasises the technological aspect. “There are CCTV cameras, queue managers, safety security guards, fire alarm systems... Someone is managing all these factors to secure the experience of the devotee or pilgrim.”

The programme has attracted diverse students, breaking the traditional mould of temple administration.

Kulkarni stresses the inclusive nature of the course, saying, “There is no caste element here. Anyone who’s a graduate can join the course, subject to their inclination to the topic.”

Sangurde says already they have got 22 admisions at Mumbai University, and many enquiries.

With a modest fee of ₹25,000 per year,the course is not just limited to Hindu temples but applies to gurudwaras, Buddhist shrines and churches too.

Looking ahead, Kulkarni shares ambitious plans. He says, “Discussions are underway with 19 other government-driven universities and private institutions to launch the programme across  States like Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Goa, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, as well as  cities  like Varanasi, Noida, Delhi, Haridwar, and more within the next two academic years.”