Archaka is the priest performing ritual services in a Hindu
Temple. The term is widely used in the South India especially in temples
dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Tamil Nadu. The ritual services performed by an
archaka include bathing of the deity, worshipping of the deity with flowers and
other rituals as prescribed in the Vaishnava Agamas.
As per Vaishnava tradition, on special occasions the God of
the temple communicates his wish or confers his blessings and favors on the
devotees through the priests.