introduction
In 2024, an incident in Bangalore highlighted the continuing tension between traditional cultural expressions and modern urban norms. A man dressed in a dhoti and kurta was denied entry to a prominent shopping mall, sparking a wider debate about cultural discrimination, dress code enforcement, and changing interpretations of modernity in India’s urban centres. Recently, an individual dressed in a traditional dhoti and kurta attempted to enter a shopping mall in Bangalore. A security guard stopped him at the entrance, citing the mall’s dress code. This seemingly simple refusal of entry sparked a larger controversy, drawing attention to the cultural biases ingrained in the dress codes of many urban institutions.
Notable cases of people being denied entry to India because of their clothing
In 2015, a judge and two lawyers were denied entry to a Tamil Nadu Cricket Association club because they were wearing dhotis. The incident caused a huge backlash and political leaders condemned the act. The Tamil Nadu government passed a bill to prohibit dress code discrimination in clubs, so that they could not refuse entry to people wearing traditional dress. In 2013, a Sikh man was refused entry to a five-star hotel in Delhi because he refused to remove his turban, which violated the hotel’s dress code. The incident sparked outrage in the Sikh community and led to a debate on religious discrimination and the need for cultural sensitivity in dress codes. In 2018, a Muslim woman wearing a hijab was refused entry to a popular restaurant in Bangalore. The incident led to protests and calls for greater respect for religious dress. In 2019, a woman wearing a sari was refused entry to an upscale nightclub in Kolkata. The incident was widely criticized, with many arguing that traditional Indian dress should not be discriminated against, but celebrated. The nightclub later apologized, but the incident raised questions about cultural prejudice in urban India. In 2016, a popular bar in Kochi refused entry to a man wearing a lungi. The incident sparked a debate about class and cultural discrimination, with many pointing out that lungi is a common and respected attire in Kerala. The bar faced backlash and was criticized for its discriminatory policies. In 2021, a man wearing a kurta was refused entry to an upscale restaurant in Mumbai because the restaurant had a policy against traditional Indian dress. The incident sparked a public backlash and a debate about the colonialist mindset that underlies the upscale establishment’s dress code. The restaurant later revised its dress code.
These cases highlight the continued cultural discrimination in public spaces in India on the basis of dress. Each case has sparked public debate and, in some cases, led to policy changes to promote inclusivity and respect for traditional and religious dress. These cases highlight the need to increase cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in public spaces and ensure that traditional dress is respected and accepted.
Cultural discrimination and dress codes
Dress codes in public and private spaces are often in place to ensure decorum and uniformity. However, these codes can unintentionally or intentionally discriminate against traditional attire. In Kumar’s case, the traditional Indian attire of dhoti and kurta was deemed inappropriate, reflecting a bias that equates modernity with Western clothing. The case highlights a form of cultural discrimination where traditional Indian attire is being replaced by Western fashion and deemed “appropriate” for urban settings. Legal experts argue that while institutions have the right to enforce dress codes, such policies must not violate individual rights or perpetuate cultural bias. The Indian Constitution upholds the right to cultural expression, and policies that discriminate against traditional attire can be seen as a violation of this fundamental right.
Interpreting modernity in Indian cities
Modernity in India, especially in urban areas, is often perceived through a Western lens. This view is manifested in a preference for Western dress codes, which are seen as symbols of sophistication and progress. However, this narrow interpretation of modernity excludes traditional cultural expressions, creating a dichotomy in which Western styles are contemporary and traditional attire is outdated. The Bangalore incident highlights the need to reassess the meaning of modernity in the Indian context. Modernity should be inclusive and embrace both global influences and local traditions. In a culturally diverse country like India, modernity should be a blend of the old and the new, with traditional attire such as the dhoti and kurta being respected and accepted in urban areas.
Public reaction and social impact
Public reaction to the incident was swift and vocal. Social media platforms were flooded with criticism of the mall’s dress code, with hashtags such as #DhotiNotAllowed and #RespectTraditionalWear gaining traction. Many saw the incident as a direct attack on India’s cultural heritage and a reflection of deep-rooted prejudices in society. Cultural critics and social scientists argue that such incidents are symptomatic of broader societal issues. In urban India, traditional dress is often seen as incompatible with modern lifestyles, leading to marginalization. This mindset not only alienates a significant portion of the population but also erodes the cultural fabric of the country.
Moving forward: Embracing cultural diversity
To address these issues, it is crucial to foster an understanding of inclusive modernity that values and respects cultural diversity. Policies and practices in public spaces, including dress codes, need to be reexamined to ensure they do not discriminate against traditional attire. Public awareness campaigns can play an important role in changing perceptions and educating people about the importance of cultural attire in preserving India’s rich traditions. Furthermore, legal frameworks need to be strengthened to protect cultural expressions. Institutions need to be encouraged to adopt policies that are inclusive and reflective of India’s diverse cultural landscape.
Conclusion
The incident in Bangalore is a reminder of the ongoing struggle to balance modernity and tradition in urban India. It demands a broader and more inclusive interpretation of what it means to be modern, without sacrificing cultural heritage. As India continues to develop and modernize, it must do so in a way that respects and integrates its rich cultural diversity, and ensure that traditional attire like the dhoti and kurta have a respected place in urban spaces.
Dr. Ahmed Raza, Assistant Professor (Manuw Central University), Gachibowli, Hyderabad
