To maintain the sanctity of the revered Eklingji Temple in Udaipur, new rules have been introduced including the prohibition of using mobile phones and not allowing devotees inside to wear short or inappropriate dresses.

The temple has now prohibited visitors entering the temple in attires like mini skirts, bermudas, and night suits from entering the temple under the new rules. The temple authorities said that the dress code is to maintain the spirituality of the place and preserve respect for the holy place. A banner displaying the latest rules was put up on Friday on the temple premises itself.

Mobile phones are also banned from carrying inside the temple. It was previously okay to bring phones inside, but they had to be switched off as photography was never allowed. Other restrictions that have remained in place include no entry of pets and weapons within the premises.

The temple committee said the new rules were effective after many devotees started expressing discomfort over inappropriate attire inside the premises. "These changes aim to ensure that the temple’s sanctity is upheld," the management said, requesting visitors to maintain the new rules.

Located in Kailashpuri village, about 22 km from Udaipur, the Eklingji Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as the deity of Mewar. The temple, built between 734-753 AD by Bappa Rawal, underwent major renovations under Maharana Mokal and later by Maharana Raimal.

The temple complex, carved out of pure marble, comprises 108 small shrines. A striking four-faced black marble idol of Lord Eklingji adorns the sanctum, while the outside features a silver idol of Nandi.

The Eklingji Temple is not the only one enforcing dress codes. Other temples in Rajasthan have also adopted the move to instill discipline and cultural awareness.

Last year, the Jagdish Temple in Udaipur banned T-shirts, bermudas, and night suits but the step was opposed and banners were removed. Likewise, the Jharkhand Mahadev Temple of Jaipur banned half-pants, bermudas, mini skirts, night suits, and torn jeans. Bhilwara's Kotri Charbhujanath temple had adopted its dress code earlier.

These efforts thus show a kind of general tendency of the temples to provide a profound, respectful ambiance and peacefulness between the religion and culture for their followers.