Mumbai’s iconic Siddhivinayak Temple has introduced a new dress code for its devotees, enforcing a ban on short skirts, torn clothes, and any attire deemed inappropriate for a place of worship. The decision, announced by the Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple Trust (SSGTT) on Tuesday, is aimed at maintaining decorum and ensuring a respectful environment for all visitors.
Starting next week, devotees will be required to adhere to a more formal dress code when visiting the temple, located in the Prabhadevi area. The SSGTT has made it clear that clothing which exposes body parts, such as short skirts, torn trousers, or any revealing garments, will not be permitted within the temple premises. The Trust has emphasized that the preferred attire for devotees is traditional Indian clothing, though they insist that all clothing should be decent and respectful of the sacred space.
A Response to Complaints
The dress code was introduced following multiple complaints from temple-goers regarding inappropriate clothing, which some felt caused discomfort among fellow devotees. According to Pawan Tripathi, the treasurer of the SSGTT, the Trust has received numerous concerns from devotees who expressed that the clothing of some individuals was disrespectful to the sanctity of the temple. Tripathi stated, “Devotees have voiced their discomfort, and it was important for the temple to take steps to address these concerns. Our decision reflects the growing sentiment that there should be more restrictions on attire in spiritual spaces.”
The issue of dress code restrictions in temples has been gaining attention across India in recent months, with several temples instituting similar measures. Tripathi pointed out that such dress codes have been implemented in various religious sites nationwide, sparking broader discussions on what is considered appropriate attire in places of worship.
Encouraging Cultural Attire
While the new dress code will prohibit certain types of clothing, the SSGTT is encouraging devotees to wear traditional Indian attire as the ideal choice for temple visits. This includes garments like sarees, salwar kameez, or dhotis, which are seen as more in harmony with the cultural and religious significance of the temple. The Trust believes that wearing culturally appropriate attire helps foster a more respectful and harmonious environment, especially in such a revered place of worship.
The Siddhivinayak Temple, known for its association with Lord Ganesha, attracts thousands of visitors daily from across the country. With the rise in the number of devotees, concerns regarding inappropriate clothing have been amplified, as some visitors have raised objections about seeing revealing or casual attire in the temple. Many devotees have shared their belief that such attire detracts from the solemnity of the religious experience.
Wider Trends in Temple Dress Codes
This move follows similar actions taken by other temples across India. In December last year, the Banke Behari Temple in Vrindavan, a prominent religious site, issued a public appeal urging devotees to avoid wearing half pants, mini skirts, torn jeans, or leather clothing. The temple administration explained that their request was intended to preserve the sanctity of the place of worship and ensure a respectful atmosphere for all. They also posted banners along the streets leading to the temple, advising visitors to dress decently.
These initiatives have highlighted an ongoing conversation in India regarding dress codes at religious sites, as authorities strive to balance tradition, respect, and inclusivity in these sacred spaces.
Environmental Measures at the Temple
Along with the dress code, the Siddhivinayak Temple has introduced another initiative to enhance the temple’s operations and environmental impact. In a move aimed at reducing plastic waste, the temple has decided to stop the use of plastic bags for distributing prasad (holy offerings) to devotees. The SSGTT has begun a trial of paper packets for prasad, a step they hope will contribute to environmental sustainability and align with growing efforts to reduce plastic use in public spaces.
The Siddhivinayak Temple’s new dress code is part of a broader effort to ensure that its environment remains respectful, spiritual, and comfortable for all devotees, while maintaining the decorum that has long been associated with one of Mumbai’s most sacred sites.
