Pandit

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A pandit or pundit is a scholar, a teacher, particularly one skilled in Sanskrit and Hindu law, religion and philosophy. In the original usage of the word, a pundit is a Hindu, almost always a Brahmin, who has learnt a substantial portion of the Vedas, along with the corresponding rhythms and melodies for chanting or singing them.

Pundits or pujaris are hired to chant Vedic verses at yagyas and other events, both public and private. The chanting is meant to be listened to with a quiet mind for the purpose of spiritual development for the listener as well as enlivening of the atmosphere at an event. Most pundits are vegetarians for spiritual reasons. They are supposed to maintain purity of body and mind.