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Outlook

In North America, Hindus are expected to number 5.9 million by 2050, up from 2.3 million in 2010, according to the Pew Research Center. Although their numbers are rising, the fact that Hindus will account for just 1.3 percent of the region's population in 2050 puts the employment outlook into perspective. Another consideration is the relatively small number of Hindu temples in the U.S. (200 or so). Opportunities in certain cities or regions of India and other predominantly Hindu countries will be better, but the number of purohitas is still small.

Pay is traditionally low for Hindu priests, so some priests leave the field to pursue jobs that allow them to better support their families. In addition, fewer are training for the priesthood because of salary issues and increasing opportunities in other careers. If these trends continue, employment opportunities for purohits may improve.