Servitors stop devotee entering Puri Srimandir wearing clothes with Lord Jagannath’s image; video goes viral

A controversy erupted outside the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri after servitors denied entry to a man who arrived wearing a kurta and dhoti printed with the image of Lord Jagannath.

The incident, which occurred close to the temple premises, was captured on video and has gone viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage about decorum and religious sentiment.

Servitors Object To Attire Featuring Deity’s Image

According to reports, the servitors were angered upon noticing the clothing that featured images of Lord Jagannath. They immediately stopped the devotee at the entrance, stating that such attire was inappropriate and disrespectful within the sacred premises.

Eyewitnesses said the servitors explained to the man that printing the deity’s image on garments, which could be soiled or discarded later, violated religious norms and moral values associated with Lord Jagannath’s worship. Further, the prints also ran close to the man’s feet, sparking outrage among those present.

Despite repeated appeals, the devotee was reportedly not allowed to proceed and left the temple premises with his companions following the servitors’ firm protest.

“The servitors made it clear that the Jagannath image printed on clothes is not a decorative or wearable design but a sacred representation deserving reverence. Wearing it inside or even outside the temple is an act of disrespect,” said another devotee who witnessed the incident.

The video of the confrontation then quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing strong reactions.

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SJTA's Dress Code And Prohibitions

Notably, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) had, in January 2024, made a dress code mandatory for all devotees entering the 12th-century shrine. The rules stipulate that visitors must wear decent, modest, and traditional attire in keeping with Indian cultural values.

The rules state that men must wear dhotis and towels, and women can only wear sarees or salwar kameez. Half pants, shorts, torn jeans, skirts, sleeveless dresses, and other indecent clothing are banned inside the temple premises.

The SJTA had also imposed bans on gutkha, pan, plastic, and tobacco products inside the premises to preserve the temple’s cleanliness and sanctity. Violators are subject to fines.