Prayagraj's Mankameshwar Temple Enforces Dress Code, Bans Selfies During Shravan

The Mankameshwar Temple in Prayagraj will continue enforcing a strict dress code and other guidelines for devotees during the holy month of Shravan, beginning July 30. The temple administration said the rules, introduced last year on the lines of Ujjain's Mahakaleshwar Temple, will remain in effect to maintain the sanctity of the shrine.

In addition to dress regulations, the temple has reiterated its ban on selfies, photography, plastic items, smoking, gutka and pan masala within the premises.

Traditional Attire Mandatory for Rudrabhishek

According to the temple administration, devotees wishing to perform Rudrabhishek during Shravan must wear traditional Indian attire.

The prescribed dress code is:

• Men: Dhoti
• Women: Saree or Salwar Suit

Temple authorities said only devotees dressed in the prescribed attire will be permitted to perform the ritual.

To assist worshippers, the temple will provide dhotis free of cost to male devotees performing Rudrabhishek. The garments must be returned after the ritual.

Modest Clothing Required for Temple Entry

The temple has also asked all visitors to wear modest clothing while entering the premises.

According to notices displayed across the temple:

• Women and girls wearing short or revealing clothes will not be allowed entry.
• Men have also been instructed to wear decent and respectful attire.

Temple authorities said the objective is to preserve the spiritual atmosphere and encourage devotees to focus on worship.

No Selfies or Photography Inside Temple

The temple administration has continued its ban on:

• Selfies
• Photography
• Videography inside the temple premises

Officials said the temple is a place for prayer and meditation, and visitors should avoid activities that may disturb the religious environment.

Plastic, Tobacco Products Also Prohibited

The guidelines also prohibit:

• Polythene bags
• Plastic cups and containers
• Smoking
• Gutka
• Pan masala

Devotees have been requested not to use plastic while offering water or performing abhishek, with the administration stating that such offerings have no religious significance.

Visitors have also been urged to help maintain cleanliness within the temple premises.

Other Guidelines for Devotees

The temple administration has advised devotees to:

• Avoid wearing excessive gold and silver jewellery because of theft concerns.
• Leave the sanctum promptly after offering prayers.
• Avoid standing near the Shivling for an extended period after completing rituals.

These measures are intended to ensure smooth crowd management during the busy Shravan season.

Temple Administration Explains Decision

Temple head priest Brahmachari Shri Dharanand said the dress code has been continued to encourage devotees to wear traditional Indian clothing while performing religious rituals.

According to him, the objective is to help worshippers remain focused during prayers and maintain the sacred atmosphere of the temple.

The decision has also received support from several devotees, many of whom believe that temples are places of worship where visitors should dress respectfully.

Key Highlights

• Mankameshwar Temple will enforce its dress code during Shravan from July 30.
• Traditional attire is mandatory for devotees performing Rudrabhishek.
• Selfies and photography remain prohibited inside the temple.
• Plastic items, smoking, gutka and pan masala are also banned.
• The temple will provide free dhotis to male devotees performing Rudrabhishek.

FAQs

When will the dress code be enforced?

The dress code will be enforced during the Shravan month beginning July 30.

What is the dress code for Rudrabhishek?

Men must wear a dhoti, while women must wear a saree or salwar suit.

Are selfies allowed inside the temple?

No. The temple administration has prohibited selfies and photography within the premises.

Can devotees wear short clothes?

According to the temple guidelines, women and girls wearing short or revealing clothes will not be allowed entry, and men are also expected to wear modest attire.

What other items are banned?

Plastic items, polythene, smoking, gutka and pan masala are prohibited inside the temple premises.