In a move that has never been seen before, the Maharashtra Mandir Mahasangha (MMM) has issued a strong call to implement a “vastra samhita” or dress code in temples throughout the state.
As a result of this decision, four temples in Nagpur have already implemented the dress code. These temples include the Gopalkrishna temple in Dhantoli, Sankatmochan Panchmukhi Hanuman temple in Saoner, Brihaspati temple, and Durgamata temple. However, other popular shrines in the district are proceeding cautiously and refraining from making hasty decisions regarding the dress code.
Posters have been displayed at the temple entrances, urging devotees to be mindful of their attire when visiting the shrines. Devotees have been requested to wear respectable clothing and avoid garments that are considered “short” or “revealing,” all in an effort to uphold the sanctity of the temples.
Sunil Ghanwat, the chief coordinator of MMM, an association representing temples in the state, stated, “During a meeting held in Jalgaon in February, we made the decision to establish a dress code for temples. We will also request Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to implement this dress code in temples under government control across Maharashtra.”
An official from MMM explained the rationale behind the dress code, stating, “Places of worship possess their own sanctity. People come here with faith to offer prayers. What harm is there in requesting individuals to wear appropriate clothing?”
He further added, “Several temples and other religious sites already have existing rules and regulations in place.”
Earlier this month, a similar dress code was enforced at the renowned Tuljapur temple in Osmanabad. This decision sparked protests and criticism, ultimately leading to the withdrawal of the dress code restrictions.