In Indian culture, tradition upholds certain values that do not change overnight to accommodate modern perspectives. One such value is the dress code, which is dictated by cultural norms rather than individual preference. These customs have evolved over time, adjusting to contemporary demands while preserving the essence of tradition. For instance, in South Indian weddings, the dhoti and sari are customarily worn for the central ritual of tying the *thalli*. However, modern attire is permitted during the reception, showing that tradition is not rigid but adaptive.
Those attending such formal occasions are also expected to dress appropriately. While individual freedom in dress choices is valued, there are limits—attending even a reception in shorts, for example, would be seen as disrespectful. However, pointing out these standards can sometimes lead to accusations of being overly dogmatic. The debate can become especially contentious when people defend informal clothing choices, arguing, for instance, that shorts expose less than a dhoti. But the issue here is not modesty alone; it is about respect for the event and setting.
This adherence to appropriate dress is upheld in various cultural and religious contexts. For example, the Tamil Nadu government recently mandated a dress code for its Secretariat staff, and educational institutions like schools and colleges also enforce dress codes. Religious places like the Guruvayur temple and Padmanabhaswamy temple in Thiruvananthapuram uphold strict dress requirements. Even in Christianity, particularly in Indian churches, it is rare to see grown men attending services in shorts. Each of these settings illustrates that traditional dress codes continue to hold significant importance.
Cultural Sensitivity and Individual Freedom
Interestingly, there are scenarios where tradition allows for certain freedoms, like Hindu priests who do not fully cover their upper bodies during rituals. The famous Tamil speaker Sri Suki Sivam once suggested that priests should drape a cloth lightly over their chests for the sake of modesty. As a *sannyasi*, I have the right to attend functions with my upper body uncovered, a tradition that no one would question. Yet, in consideration of others, I choose to dress modestly, even covering my head on particularly warm days as a humorous gesture toward propriety.
In many cases, the debate over attire in traditional settings is not simply about which garment covers more but about respecting the occasion’s customs. Kenneth E. Bailey captures this idea well in his work, Paul Through Mediterranean Eyes, where he discusses the wedding garment parable in Matthew 22:11-12. Bailey writes, “The flippant comment, ‘I don’t care how I look’ is not a mark of humility but a lack of love…For love’s sake I will dress in a manner that signals my love and respect for those around me.” This perspective, rooted in love and consideration for others, reminds us that freedom in dress is conditioned by the impact on those around us (Bailey, p. 370).&
As the saying goes, *Our freedom ends at the beginning of another person’s nose*. Yet, today’s scenario often overlooks this wisdom in favor of personal liberty. It may be futile to address these matters openly, given that even modesty and courtesy are sometimes seen as outdated ideals.
Navigating Public and Private Spaces
There is often confusion between personal freedom and public decorum. If someone wishes to relax, they are free to do so in private spaces, such as a resort, where attire is typically unrestricted. However, when visiting religious or formal spaces, it is reasonable to expect adherence to a respectful dress code.
This contrast between private and public spaces becomes apparent at gatherings. I once attended a wedding where, after the reception, some young men changed into shorts for casual comfort. Although unconventional, no one objected, as it occurred after the event. But if a similar choice were made during the ceremony, it would have been inappropriate. When these cultural expectations are disregarded, perhaps the best response for people like myself from the older generation is to quietly observe and refrain from comment.
Closing Thoughts
Dress codes are part of tradition, imposed particularly for events that require formality and respect. As seen in institutions, government offices, and places of worship, they are upheld across Indian society. Western institutions, too, uphold these standards to a degree, illustrating that the issue is not unique to India.
To conclude, while personal freedom is valued, public settings and traditions call for a dress code that reflects respect for cultural and social values. It is not a generational gap, but a matter of public interest and collective courtesy. In Bailey’s words, freedom in dress is a privilege that must be tempered by love and consideration for those around us. In this age of change, if others do not adhere to such standards, it may be wisest to avoid the conflict and quietly maintain one’s values.
Mathigiri, 4-6-2019, revised on 13-11-2024
&…The guest who attends a wedding banquet without a wedding garment (Mt. 22:11-12) could be described as askhemonos. The flippant comment, “I don’t care how I look” is not a mark of humility but a lack of love. Others are obliged to look at the person who doesn’t care, and thereby he or she is inflicting psychic pain on them. For love’s sake I will dress in a manner that signals my love and respect for those around me. My freedom to dress as I choose must always be conditioned by my love for others. Love is concerned for the other (not the self) in all matters related to personal appearance and lifestyle. {The Hymn to Love. 1 Cor. 12:31-14:1.}— Kenneth E. Bailey, Paul Through Mediterranean Eyes: Cultural studies in 1Corinthians, Downers Grove, Illinois, IVP Academic, p. 370
“When I read Gandhi’s letter, I remembered the poem that I wrote back on 4-6-2019 on this subject. So I am giving a short summary from Gandhi’s letter in the footnote:
**Dress Code of Mahatmaji**
In a 1924 letter, Gandhi emphasized that while wearing khadi is a symbol of economic self-reliance within India, wearing it abroad should be adapted to local context and customs. He believed that khadi could be worn abroad, especially in places where climate and circumstances allowed, such as East Africa, as a means of representing Indian identity. However, he also stressed tidiness and cleanliness, cautioning that in foreign lands, clothing should meet local standards of modesty to show respect. His stance reflected both practical wisdom and a respect for decorum in cross-cultural settings.”—For complete letter of Mahatmaji see CWMG, vol. 27, pp. 189-190. Also https://dayanandbharati.in/dress-code-of-mahatmaji/
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