Mahalaxmi, Jyotiba temple implements dress code “preserve sacred” in Maharashtra

People participated in the “Jyotiba Yatra” of Jyotiba Temple in Kolhapur district of Maharashtra. |Photo source: PTI

Maharashtra’s famous Karveer Nivasini Mahalaxmi and Kolhapur’s Dakshinacha Raja Jyotiba Temples announced the implementation of a new dress code, which announced the implementation of a new dress code on Wednesday (May 14, 2025). The decision made by the management committee of Paschim Maharashtra Devasthan is intended to maintain the sacredness, purity and tradition of these respected temples.

The notice issued by the Commission outlines the dress code, requiring devotees to wear traditional and modest clothing, including Sari,,,,, Salwar-Kameez,,,,, Dhotarand Pajamas – Kurta. The committee also said individuals wearing exposed clothes would be denied and urged all devotees to comply with these guidelines.

Shivraj Naik, secretary of the Temple Committee, stressed the importance of moderate dressings. Mr Naik said: “Devotees should avoid wearing exposed clothes and choose traditional clothing when visiting the temple. Guidelines have been issued to ensure that the devotees wear moderately and respect the sanctity of the temple.”

The move follows similar measures recently proposed at the Tulja Bhavani temple in Turjapur, where Mandir Mahasangh of Maharashtra implemented similar dress codes to protect the sanctity of the temple.

For those who don’t know the dress code, the committee has arranged for traditional clothing to be offered in shops near the temple. Visitors can buy Sovala – a Dhoti and Uparna (Clothes like shawls) Sarees for both men and women – before entering the temple.