Starting from January 1, 2024, devotees who visit the Puri Jagannath temple would have to adhere to a prescribed dress code. This article explains the allowed dress code and not allowed ones, implications, and enforcement of this new regulation at one of the oldest and most revered temples in the world.
Why is the Dress Code Implemented at Puri Jagannath Temple from January 1, 2024?
Motivation behind the Implementation of Dress Code for Devotees
The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration has decided to implement a dress code for devotees who visit the temple, in an effort to maintain the sanctity and decorum of the holy place. This decision was born out of a desire to preserve the traditional and spiritual atmosphere of the Puri Jagannath temple.
The Rationale Behind the January 1st Implementation Date
In terms of the January 1 implementation date, this gives adequate time for the announcement to be delivered to all potential visitors and allows the temple administration to ensure that the necessary enforcement measures are in place for the newly ordained dress code. Also a new start from the English new year. Special arrangements made for this day to start darshan from 1am night.
The Impact on Those Planning to Visit the Temple
The implementation of the dress code from January 1, 2024, would slightly impact all those planning to visit the temple from other countries. Devotees will now have to be mindful of their attire before they enter the temple premises. This would especially concern young tourists who has no idea about how to dress up decently for visiting temple, who may need to plan their trip keeping the dress code in mind. Although it shouldn’t’ve be a big headache as the local shop nearby is too good incase anyone without formals.
What is the Dress Code for Devotees Visiting Puri Jagannath Temple?
Details of the Declared Dress Code for Devotees
Ananta Tiadi, a member of the temple managing committee, said, “There is no such thing as dress code. The priority is to ensure that devotees wear decent attire instead of shorts, skirts, and torn jeans.”
Acceptable and Unacceptable Outfits for the Temple Visit
Certain outfits like ripped jeans have already been declared unacceptable. More announcements are likely to cover other types of clothing and accessories that the Jagannath Temple in Puri will or will not permit.
Special Provisions in Dress Code for Different Age Groups and Genders
In addition to the general dress code, there may also be special provisions for different age groups and genders. Devotees from all age groups, every gender will have to adhere to the prescribed dress code.
Do the Dress Code Rules Apply to the Temple Servitors as well?
The Role of the Servitors in Upholding the Dress Code
The servitors of the temple will play a critical role in upholding the dress code. They are expected to adhere to the dress code themselves and monitor the attire of the devotees entering the temple.
Uniforms and Dress Code Guidelines for the Servitors
Apart from the general dress code, additional guidelines might be provided for the attire of the servitors. These guidelines would further respect the sanctity of their roles and position within the temple hierarchy.
Consequences for Servitors Not Adhering to the Dress Code
Any deviation by the servitors from the dress code could lead to consequences, ensuring that those responsible for preserving the sanctity of the temple lead by example.
How is the Dress Code Enforced by the Police and the Temple Servitors?
The Role of the Police in Enforcing the Dress Code
The police would play a crucial role in enforcing the dress code at the Puri Jagannath temple. They would be responsible for monitoring and checking devotees’ attire before allowing them to enter the temple.
The Involvement of the Temple Servitors in Enforcement
The temple servitors would also play a critical role in ensuring the smooth execution of the dress code. They would ensure that the devotees are abiding by the dress code, aiding the police to maintain the sanctity of the temple.
The System in Place for Managing Non-compliant Devotees
Devotees not complying with the dress code may face consequences such as denial of entry into the temple. We have already seen many videos of same and they allow them after getting covered by a dhoti.
Why are Ripped Jeans and Torn Jeans Not Allowed in the Temple?
Rationale Behind the Ban on Ripped and Torn Jeans
While it might seem bias to target a specific type of clothing like ripped or torn jeans, the rationale could be retaining the solemn atmosphere of the temple. Ripped jeans, generally seen as casual or edgy fashion, might not align with the traditional and respectful atmosphere of a holy place like the Puri Jagannath temple.
Significance of Dress Code for Devotees in Puri Jagannath Temple
The dress code for devotees at Puri Jagannath Temple holds paramount importance as it boosts the efforts to maintain tradition and sanctity of the temple. It is an attempt to align the attire of devotees with the serene environment of the holy place.
The Reaction of Devotees and Visitors to this Rule
While the dress code would necessitate changes for devotees and visitors, the reactions have largely been good. Some have embraced the change as another means of respecting the sanctity of the Puri Jagannath temple, while only a few who were not aware about it before visit view these guidelines as added constraints for devotees who visit the temple.