Most American Hindu temples require applicants to have three to five years of experience as an archaka or assistant archaka—preferably with some experience working at a temple in the United States.
Successful archakas are proficient in Sanskrit, Hindi, and other Indian languages, as well as Hindu religious and classical texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, Vedas, Upanishads, Agama Shastras, Puranas, and the Ramayana.They have a deep understanding of traditional Hindu rituals and festivals of various regions of India. They are excellent communicators, have good interpersonal skills, and possess strong and clear speaking voices. Many U.S.-based temples require that archakas be able to also communicate in English. Other important traits include dedication, flexibility in serving the needs of the temple, and the ability to work as a member of a team with temple trustees, board members, other employees, volunteers, and the general public. Many U.S.-based temples require proficiency in basic business principles and the use of Microsoft Word and Excel.