Preserving Sanctity: Jabalpur Temples Encourage Traditional Dress Code to Uphold Cultural Values

In an initiative aimed at reinforcing the spiritual and cultural sanctity of religious spaces, over 40 temples in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, have displayed posters urging devotees to adhere to a “culturally appropriate” dress code while visiting temple premises.

The appeal, issued by Mahakal Sangh International Bajrang Dal, seeks to promote respect for Indian traditions and rituals by encouraging attire that aligns with the aesthetic and spiritual ethos of sacred places.

The posters specifically discourage clothing such as jeans, tops, mini-skirts, night suits, and shorts, and suggest that women and girls cover their heads as a mark of reverence.

A spokesperson for the organisation clarified that the intention is not to impose restrictions, but to foster awareness about the importance of cultural sensitivity in places of worship.

“Temples are spaces of devotion, discipline, and deep-rooted tradition. Just as we observe decorum in any respectful setting, it is our responsibility to honour the cultural atmosphere of our shrines,” he said.

He further emphasized that the request is not aimed at moral policing, but rather at preserving the essence of Indian culture, especially in sacred environments.

“We are simply appealing. This should not be misunderstood. We all have a role to play in preserving and nurturing our rich heritage,” he added.

Such appeals are not new in India, where many temples across different states encourage or enforce traditional dress codes as part of their spiritual practice.

For many devotees, dressing modestly is seen as an act of devotion and humility, a gesture that complements prayer and spiritual connection.

The move has sparked conversations about cultural identity, freedom of expression, and the role of tradition in modern society.

However, temple authorities and proponents of the dress code reiterate that voluntary adherence to these guidelines can foster a more respectful and spiritually aligned environment for all visitors.

As India continues to balance modern lifestyles with age-old traditions, such efforts serve as reminders of the deep values embedded in its spiritual practices — and the role of individual choices in sustaining them.