Priests will either follow the ‘Panchkesh’ tradition or remain completely shaven, with partially grown hair or beard not permitted.
Published: August 16, 2026, 9:37 AM IST
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Amidst raging controversy over alleged theft of donations and valuables in the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple complex, a new rule has become the talk of the townAs per the new rules, Priests at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya on Saturday began following a new dress code, with all priests now wearing a uniform traditional attireThe new dress code came into effect on August 15, 2026.
According to a PTI report, Mithilesh Nandini Sharan, a member of the temple trust’s religious committee, said the attire has been prescribed in accordance with the Ramanandi traditionThe priests will wear light-yellow silk dhotis and matching silk uttariyasFurthermore, she stated light yellow is considered dear to Lord Ram and was therefore chosen for the attire.
According to the new regulations, the new rules also prescribe grooming normsPriests will either follow the ‘Panchkesh’ tradition or remain completely shaven, with partially grown hair or beard not permittedWearing the traditional Ramanandi tilak has also been made mandatory.
Religious committee member Mahant Rajkumar Das said silk garments were chosen keeping in mind their sanctity and purityThe committee said the uniform attire would bring greater discipline, uniformity and religious dignity to the worship and service of Ram Lalla.
Many religious and cultural sites in India are considered significant, with Ayodhya’s Ram Temple being one of themSituated in the ancient area of Ayodhya, which lies in the state of Uttar Pradesh, this temple is an important religious location for countless worshippers and believers.
The grand temple complex has emerged as a major centre of faith and pilgrimage, with devotees visiting throughout the year to offer prayers and seek blessingsThe temple’s architecture, religious importance and association with the centuries-old traditions surrounding Lord Ram have also made it a prominent attraction for visitors interested in India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
The selection committee for the appointment of the first full-time chief executive officer (CEO) of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has completed the interview process for the 16 shortlisted candidates and is now expected to recommend names for the post, sources said on Thursday.
