Questions for the incoming CEO of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya extended beyond budgets and operations to personal matters. Candidates faced inquiries such as whether they were devout Hindus or consumed non-vegetarian food. Eighteen shortlisted applicants for the inaugural full-time role at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust discussed their religious routines, family details and eating habits alongside professional background and plans for the site. Applicants completed a Google form covering work history, beliefs and private matters. Interviewers reviewed resumes and probed preferences, social abilities and behavior. Specific queries included whether candidates maintained a shikha, wore a janeu or drank alcohol. They also addressed family life, prior roles, crowd management at events and devotion to Lord Ram. The process evaluated leadership, religious involvement and future vision for the temple. This marks the first full-time CEO appointment following reports of missing cash and offerings last June. The chosen executive will manage administration, facilities and related operations. Interviews started Tuesday with ten candidates; the rest follow on Wednesday. The trust requires the appointee to be a practicing Hindu, adhere to traditions, maintain a vegetarian diet and abstain from alcohol. Age limits are set between 50 and 70. Sessions occurred privately in a greenhouse within the complex. The panel includes former Justice Pramod Kohli, retired Lt Gen Vishnukant Chaturvedi and former Shirdi Sai Baba Trust chairman Suresh Haware. The trust received over 5,300 applications nationwide and narrowed them to 18, prioritizing administrative experience. Three former IAS officers, one retired IPS officer and four ex-military or education officials are among them. The appointment follows a police investigation into theft of donations, with the probe due for completion in 90 days.
