Dress code comes into effect in Murudeshwara Temple for devotees

KARWAR

The Shri Murudeshwar Temple Committee has officially imposed a dress code for devotees visiting the revered temple in Murudeshwar town, with the new guidelines taking effect from Monday. According to temple authorities, women devotees are now expected to wear traditional attire such as sarees or salwars, while short dresses and trousers are strictly prohibited. For men, permitted attire includes kurtas, dhoti, pants, and shirts. However, jeans and shorts are not allowed within the temple premises. Once known purely as a pilgrimage site, Murudeshwar has also emerged as a popular tourist destination due to its scenic beachside location. Temple committee sources noted that the influx of tourists led to a rise in visitors entering the temple in attire deemed inappropriate for a sacred space. Despite repeated efforts to persuade such individuals to dress modestly, many disregarded the appeals, entering the temple in shorts, half-pants, or revealing clothing, compromising the sanctity of the site, the sources said.In response, the temple administration made the dress code mandatory to uphold the spiritual and cultural dignity of the shrine. Local devotees in Uttara Kannada, who regard Murudeshwar Temple with deep reverence, have welcomed the decision, stating that it will help preserve the temple's religious atmosphere.