Chamundeshwari temple authorities mull dress code for devotees

Time of India

6 days ago

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Mysuru: In response to the growing number of devotees visiting the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple atop the Chamundi Hills in western attire — such as jeans, shorts, skirts, miniskirts, and sleeveless tops — the Shree Chamundeshwari Kshetra Development Authority is considering the implementation of a dress code for both men and women.
The initiative aims to preserve the sanctity and cultural dignity of the temple, especially amid concerns over inappropriate clothing, officials argued. The authorities also requested devotees to visit the temple in decent attire.
The move is in the wake of increasing instances of both men and women wearing informal clothing to the temple. Authorities argued that if people can adhere to dress codes in professional spaces like offices, courts, and hospitals, similar respect should be shown in religious places, which hold deeper spiritual significance.
Temples in Karnataka and across the country have already begun enforcing dress codes, with signage explicitly barring attire such as shorts, bermuda shorts, miniskirts, night suits, torn jeans, and frocks. The Shree Chamundeshwari Kshetra Development Authority is expected to discuss the introduction of a similar policy in its upcoming meeting. The authority is headed by chief minister Siddaramaiah.
MJ Roopa, secretary of the Shree Chamundeshwari Kshetra Development Authority, told TOI: "Wearing decent attire is important not only while visiting Sri Chamundeshwari Temple, but in any place of worship.
The issue was discussed in the last meeting but no decision was taken. However, we are receiving increasing requests from devotees to implement a dress code. Being a cultural city, Mysuru must uphold traditional values within its temples as well.
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MA Alvar, professor at Maharaja's Sanskrit College, emphasised, "Places like police stations, courts, and hospitals have dress codes because they are important institutions.
A temple is even more sacred. Inappropriate clothing spoils the spiritual atmosphere. Devotees come to the temple seeking peace of mind, and the environment should encourage devotion, not discomfort or distraction. Hence, a decent dress code is essential.
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Meanwhile, on Thursday, a group of volunteers conducted an awareness campaign in front of the temple, urging devotees to dress modestly during the Aashada month. They recommended that men wear traditional attire such as dhotis, shawls, pants, and shirts, while women are encouraged to wear saris or churidars.