As a result of “concern over improper clothes” worn by many people during Temple visits, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has now decreed that from January 1, 2016:
‘men should wear a dhoti or pyjama with upper cloth or formal pants and shirts, and women should wear a sari or half-sari or churidhar with upper cloth,’ and for children, ‘any fully-covered dress.’
In the case of Western ladies it is assumed that modest clothes with proper covering will be sufficient to satisfy the new dress code requirements of Tamil Nadu Temples. However gents should observe a more formal dress and not wear shorts, t-shirts or blue jeans.
The High Court ruling directs that this 'dress code' be implemented in all Temples coming under the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department until the State government takes a policy decision on the issue in order 'to enhance the spiritual ambience'.
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| Sample of proper clothing as per High Court ruling |
In a detailed notice placed outside temples, the Tamil Nadu government has said women visiting Temples cannot wear; leggings, jeans, skirts and miniskirts. Men cannot wear lungi, shorts or Bermuda shorts. In addition visitors wearing t-shirts are not allowed entry.
In this regard the Tamil Nadu government has challenged the Madras High Court's order prescribing a dress code for devotees visiting temples across the state that came into force from January 1, 2016.
To avoid disappointment and ensure entry into Arunachaleswarar Temple please wear modest clothes complying with the above ruling.
