But as the lines between leisure and worship spaces increasingly blur, the temple’s management has decided it is time to reassert a sense of decorum.
In a recent move, the Shri Laxmi Narayan Sansthan introduced a mandatory dress code for all devotees entering the historic shrine, making it clear that adherence to the rules is now non-negotiable.
The decision, temple officials say, is rooted in the need to protect the sanctity and spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
“This is not about policing people, but about preserving the sacredness of the space,” a member of the temple management committee said.
A clear signboard has been installed at the entrance to the premises, informing visitors that those dressed in shorts, mini-skirts, midis, sleeveless tops, low-waist jeans and short T-shirts will not be allowed inside.
According to the committee, devotees are expected to wear modest clothing in keeping with Indian cultural traditions, ensuring that the spiritual ambience of the sanctum sanctorum and the surroundings remains undisturbed.
The move comes after repeated concerns were raised by devotees over what they described as a growing disregard for temple norms, with modern and revealing attire becoming increasingly common within the premises.
Dress codes at places of worship, however, are not new to Goa. Over the years, several prominent temples and churches across the State have introduced similar guidelines, often prompted by the pressures of mass tourism.
“People forget that this is a place of prayer, not a picnic spot. A basic sense of respect is all that is being asked for,” said Narayan Ratwad, a regular devotee and resident of Khorlim. “This is not just about tourists,” Ratwad further said, alleging that even local women, influenced by modern fashion, were wearing what he termed inappropriate clothing inside the temple.
Sources at the temple said complaints from devotees had become more frequent, with many expressing discomfort over the changing atmosphere inside the shrine.
While the management has not indicated what specifically triggered the timing of the decision, there is a broad sense among locals that the step was long overdue.
“Better late than never,” said another devotee, welcoming the move as a necessary correction in changing times.
With this decision, the Shri Laxmi Narayan Sansthan joins a growing number of religious institutions in Goa that are attempting to strike a delicate balance “ remaining open and welcoming to visitors, while firmly safeguarding the dignity, discipline and sanctity of their sacred spaces.
