Puri Jagannath Temple makes dress code mandatory for devotees

Digital Desk: In a significant move to preserve the sanctity of the 12th-century Shree Jagannath Temple, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) announced the enforcement of a mandatory dress code for devotees. The administration has also implemented a ban on chewing gutkha and pan, as well as the use of plastic and polythene within the temple premises, starting from the first day of the New Year in 2024.

According to an SJTA official, the dress code requires devotees to wear "decent clothes" when entering the shrine. This includes prohibiting half pants, shorts, torn jeans, skirts, and sleeveless dresses. The new regulation took effect on New Year's Day, and male devotees were observed wearing traditional attire such as dhoti and towels, while women adorned sarees or salwar kameez as they gathered for the darshan of the deity.

The SJTA's decision aligns with their commitment to maintaining the sanctity of the sacred shrine. To enforce these guidelines, the temple administration has sought the support of local law enforcement agencies. Devotees found violating the dress code or engaging in the consumption of gutkha and pan are subject to fines.

As the temple doors reopened for devotees on New Year's Day, a large number of pilgrims flocked to the seaside city to seek the darshan of Lord Jagannath. Over 180,000 devotees visited the temple by noon on Monday, demonstrating the widespread appeal and devotion to the deity. To ensure a smooth darshan experience, the SJTA and the police have implemented comprehensive arrangements, including an air-conditioned tensile fabric structure equipped with CCTV cameras, public announcement systems, drinking water facilities, and public toilets.

Samarth Verma, a spokesperson for the Puri police, highlighted their commitment to facilitating specially-abled devotees. He stated, "Along with ensuring hassle-free darshan, police are ensuring the facilitation of specially-abled devotees."

In addition to the dress code and the ban on harmful substances, the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar has also followed suit. Devotees entering the premises of this 11th-century Shiva temple are now prohibited from chewing tobacco or betel leaves, and the use of polythene and plastics has been banned by the Lingaraj Temple Trust Board.

Traffic restrictions have been imposed in the town for New Year's Day, with specific areas declared as 'no vehicle zones.' The proactive measures taken by the temple administrations and local authorities reflect a commitment to preserving the spiritual ambience of these ancient shrines while ensuring a safe and respectful environment for devotees.