By Emb Hashmi
Following in the steps of her father and grandfather, Chanda Vyas has become a Hindu Priest and in doing so the first female Hindu Priest in Great Britain. During the day Chanda works for Leicester City Council, but when called upon she becomes a Hindu Priest and mainly conducts wedding and funeral services as well as other ceremonies from time to time. Chanda told Asian World “One of the most common ceremonies I conduct are weddings, I arrange workshops to help prepare the bride and groom for their wedding to help them to understand the meaning of their ceremony and take anxieties away.”
What characteristics do you need to be a Hindu Priest?
You need to be 100% committed to mind, body and soul. It is important to have a clean heart, pure thoughts and non-judgemental attitude. It is also important to have family support. There is a saying that ‘there is a strong man behind a successful woman’. This happens to be my husband – Manoj Vyas.
What are the biggest challenges you face?
Like any job, being a Hindu Priest has its own challenges. Sometimes in society a Priest is expected to act like an angel and have all the answers. This in itself is a big challenge. In my experience it’s not about acting like an angel or having all the answers, it is about being a good listener, being patient, calm and respecting different beliefs, values and cultures.
Are there many opportunities to become a Hindu Preist?
I believe that this work has a lot more scope for women to get involved. I’m happy to provide guidance and support to anyone wishing to become a Hindu Priest and serving their community at large.
What are your ambitions?
My ambitions include sharing my experience and knowledge with those that I come into contact with and communicating the benefits of spirituality.
I would also like to be able to train and teach those who are passionate about performing the role of a Hindu Priest.
