Ayodhya Ram Mandir priest dress code implementation

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has introduced new dress code and grooming regulations for priests at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya to align with Vaishnav and Ramanandi traditions.

Initially, the Trust approved a mandate for priests to wear unstitched yellow silk clothing, specifically yellow dhotis and upper garments (uttariya), replacing previous stitched garments. This change was intended to maintain Vedic sanctity and local traditions.

Subsequent updates to the guidelines expanded the requirements to include strict grooming standards. Priests are now required to adhere to the ‘Panchkesh’ tradition or maintain a completely shaved head and face, while also wearing the Ramanandi tilak on the forehead to ensure religious decorum and visual consistency during ceremonies.

Following the implementation, Jagadguru Paramhans Acharya, head of the Tapasvi Chhavni Peethadhishwar, described the initiative as a ‘good step’. However, he noted that such decisions should involve consultation with scholars and priests to ensure consensus, and recommended that the temple administration provide the necessary clothing to the clergy.