Kapileshwar Temple ushers in dress code, tightens norms ahead of Shravan month

Belagavi: Kapileshwar Temple in Belagavi, revered as ‘Dakshina Kashi’, has decided to introduce a traditional dress code for devotees, citing the need to preserve sanctity and religious decorum within the premises.Though not yet formally enforced, the temple committee has begun implementing the code in practice. Signboards have been installed at the entrance stating that entry in certain types of attire will not be allowed. The move follows a recent rise in visitors wearing inappropriate or indecent clothing, which the committee believes could hurt religious sentiments.The temple, which sees hundreds of devotees daily and heavy footfall on Mondays and Amavasya, has also witnessed an increase in visitors wearing western outfits and filming reels near the Shivalinga. To address this, awareness drives have been launched within the premises, with staff advising devotees to follow traditional attire.Temple secretary Abhijit Chavan said the initiative aims to ensure the sanctity of the temple is maintained. He added that while the rules are currently being implemented in a phased, awareness-driven manner, stricter enforcement is planned during the upcoming Shravan month.The temple has also revised its closing timings. Doors will now shut at 9.30pm from Tuesday to Sunday and at 10.30pm on Mondays. Devotees have been requested to take note of the changes.The dress code awareness campaign has been in effect since May 18 and has begun receiving a positive response from visitors, temple authorities said.