Maharashtra’s Mahalaxmi, Jyotiba temples implement dress code to ‘preserve sanctity’

New dress code implemented at Maharashtra's Karveer Nivasini Mahalaxmi and Dakshinacha Raja Jyotiba temples in Kolhapur for sanctity and tradition.

The temple committee of Maharashtra’s renowned Karveer Nivasini Mahalaxmi and Dakshinacha Raja Jyotiba temples in Kolhapur announced the implementation of a new dress code, effective Wednesday (May 14, 2025). The decision, made by the Paschim Maharashtra Devasthan Management Committee, aims to uphold the sanctity, purity, and tradition of these revered temples.

A notification issued by the committee outlines the dress code, mandating that devotees wear traditional and modest attire, including sarees, salwar-kameez, dhotar, and pajama-kurta. The committee has also stated that entry will be denied to individuals wearing revealing clothing, urging all devotees to comply with these guidelines.

Shivraj Naik, the Secretary of the temple committee, emphasized the importance of modest dressing. “Devotees should avoid wearing revealing clothes and, if possible, choose traditional outfits when visiting the temple. The guidelines have been issued to ensure that devotees dress modestly and respect the sanctity of the temple,” Mr. Naik said.

This move follows similar measures recently introduced at the Tulja Bhavani temple in Tuljapur, where the Maharashtra Mandir Mahasangh enforced a similar dress code to preserve the temple’s sanctity.

For those unaware of the dress code, the committee has made arrangements for traditional attire to be available at shops near the temple. Visitors can purchase sovala - a dhoti and uparna (shawl-like garment) for men, and sarees for women - before entering the temple.