‘No shorts or revealing clothes’: Dress code at Siddhivinayak temple

Anybody found violating the guidelines would not be allowed entry into the temple premises, the letter stated. The decision will come into force from January 28.

According to trust member Rahul Londe, “We held a meeting recently where a collective decision was taken to enforce some rules on attire to maintain sanctity in the place of worship. We are not saying who should wear what. All we are saying is individuals who come to the temple should wear clothes that connote decency. It applies to both men and women.”

Explaining the reasons behind the decision, he said, “Often we come across devotees who walk inside the temple casually wearing T-shirts and shorts. There are some who come in revealing clothes… Every place has its own importance. Imagine indecently standing in front of the deity inside the shrine… it also unsettles other devotees. On an average 75,000 to 90,000 people visit the temple daily,”

The trust will put up posters to create awareness on dress rules among people. It clarified that the dress code is being introduced to ensure that all devotees feel comfortable during their visit and to maintain decorum within the temple premises.