The Sanjay Nagar Hanuman Temple, renowned for its spiritual significance, now prohibits attire such as torn jeans, half pants, and sleeveless T-shirts. The temple administration has displayed notices both inside and outside the temple premises to inform visitors about the new regulations.
BK Agarwal, the chief trustee of the temple, stated that the decision was made after observing that many devotees were attending in attire deemed inappropriate for the religious setting. The management believes such clothing distracts other worshippers and detracts from the solemn atmosphere intended for prayer and reflection.
The temple committee, including head priest Surendra Tiwari, emphasized that the dress code is a step towards reinforcing traditional values. Tiwari mentioned that the influx of Western clothing styles was increasingly noticeable among visitors, prompting the need for this directive. He argued that preserving cultural heritage and promoting decorum within the temple grounds necessitated this move.
This enforcement is not unique to Ghaziabad. Similar dress codes have been adopted in various other temples across the region, including in Mathura and Agra. These measures reflect a broader trend among temple authorities striving to maintain a respectful and culturally aligned environment for worshippers.
As the dress code takes effect, the temple committee remains firm in its resolve to uphold these standards. Devotees are encouraged to dress modestly and in accordance with traditional Indian attire when visiting the temple, ensuring a respectful and focused worship experience for all attendees.
This initiative has sparked discussions among the local community, with some supporting the move as a means of preserving cultural values, while others view it as a restrictive measure. Nevertheless, the temple authorities remain steadfast in their commitment to enforcing the dress code, highlighting the importance of maintaining the sanctity and decorum of the worship space.
The implementation of the dress code at the Sanjay Nagar Hanuman Temple marks a significant step in reinforcing cultural traditions and ensuring a respectful environment for all devotees.