Kashi Vishwanath Temple: No Formal Decision Yet On Dress Code For Visitors, Says Official

Earlier it was reported that the authorities were mulling introducing traditional wear "Dhoti" as a dress code for the devotees visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Devotees line up to enter Baba Vishwanath temple (Getty Images)

New Delhi: Amid reports about dress code being introduced in Varanasi’s famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, an official has stated that no formal proposal is under consideration as of now regarding this. Refuting the reports, Varanasi Divisional Commissioner Deepak Aggarwal on Monday said: “I state it with full responsibility that no such formal proposal is under consideration as of now.” "A verbal suggestion was made by some members of Kashi Vidvat Parishad. It was discussed but we have not received any formal proposal. I deny all such reports on the matter," he added. The meeting was held on Sunday by UP minister of state for religious affairs Neelkanth Tiwari and Deepak Aggarwal with the members of the 'Kashi Vidvat Parishad', Vishal Singh of Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust told reporters. Parishad is a body of scholars that advises the administration on religious and other matters in the temple city. Earlier it was reported that the authorities were mulling introducing traditional wear "Dhoti" as a dress code for the devotees visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. "At present, the 'Sparsh-Darshan' is allowed for a short time after the 'Mangla-Arti' keeping in view the limited space in sanctum sanctorum and a large number of devotees," Aggarwal earlier said. "Yesterday, a meeting was chaired by Tourism and Religious Affairs Minister Neelkanth Tiwari in which other stakeholders were also present. The meeting mulled over introducing traditional 'dhoti' as a dress code for those who want to do 'Sparsh-Darshan'. We will introduce it only after thorough discussions with several stakeholders. The people will either bring their own 'dhoti' or the Mandir Nyas will provide them with one," he added. (with inputs from agencies)