Shri Siddhivinayak Temple’s dress code is appropriate!
Mumbai: The Maharashtra Mandir Mahasangh welcomes and fully supports the decision of the Shri Siddhivinayak Temple administration to implement a dress code. A temple is a sacred religious site and a center of our culture and traditions. Therefore, adhering to appropriate attire is necessary. The Mahasangh believes that this decision will help maintain a more pious and disciplined atmosphere in the temple.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi sets an example : India’s Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, follows dress code while visiting temples such as the Guruvayur Temple and gurdwaras, even with his SPG security personnel. When the country’s highest leader has set such an example, there should be no difficulty for common devotees in adhering to the temple administration’s dress code. The Maharashtra Mandir Mahasangh believes that other government-controlled temples should also follow the example set by Shri Siddhivinayak Temple.
Why only objections on Hindu temples? : The Mandir Mahasangh has raised questions why a dress code is acceptable in schools (temples of knowledge), courts (temples of justice), and even legislative assemblies (temples of democracy), but objections are raised only when it comes to temples. The Mahasangh clarified that the temple dress code is not only for women but applies to all devotees. Therefore, calling it ‘discrimination against women’ is a false narrative.
Many temples across India, including Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Shri Tirupati Balaji Temple have implemented dress codes. Furthermore, churches, mosques, gurdwaras, police stations, hospitals and government offices also have specific dress codes. However, it is unfortunate that only Hindu temples face objections regarding such regulations.
Preserving culture is essential : The temple administration’s request for devotees to wear appropriate attire is justified. A temple is a place of worship, and every visitor should approach it with reverence. Hence, the dress code is meant to uphold the dignity of the devotees and does not infringe upon personal freedom.
