Maharashtra Temples Encourage Modest Dress Code to Uphold Sanctity
Several temple trusts across Maharashtra have begun urging devotees to wear modest attire while visiting places of worship, in a move aimed at preserving the sanctity and cultural values of temple spaces. Although not legally enforced, the advisory reflects a growing trend among temple authorities to maintain decorum on religious premises.
The Chinchwad Devasthan Trust recently issued guidelines requesting visitors to dress appropriately at prominent temples under its jurisdiction, including Morgaon and Theur (Pune), Siddhatek (Ahilyanagar), Morya Gosavi Sanjivan (Pimpri-Chinchwad), and Khar Narangi (Raigad). The advisory recommends modest, traditional attire, but stops short of imposing penalties for non-compliance.
This initiative is part of a broader movement across the state. Earlier this year, Mumbai’s Shree Siddhivinayak Temple adopted a similar advisory. In 2023, over 50 temples in Ratnagiri displayed signage discouraging revealing outfits and promoting full, culturally appropriate clothing. Meanwhile, 16 temples in Ahilyanagar have gone a step further by restricting entry to visitors wearing jeans, shorts, or skirts deemed inappropriate for temple visits.
The Maharashtra Temple Federation has played a central role in coordinating these efforts through meetings and consultations with temple trustees.
Public opinion remains divided. While some devotees see the guidelines as necessary to maintain the spiritual atmosphere, others believe they may be impractical, especially for tourists or casual visitors.
Despite the mixed reactions, temple authorities say the aim is not to restrict but to encourage respectful behavior in places of worship. Enforcement remains advisory, with an emphasis on cultural preservation and voluntary compliance.
