So you agree that wearing a dhoti and covering the upper body is also important?
Yes. For Jain householders, simple, clean, and modest dress is part of maryada (proper conduct) during puja and when entering a derasar.
- For men, a clean dhoti is appropriate; covering the upper body with an uparna/angavastra (shawl) is respectful and commonly expected. Avoid shorts, sleeveless, or tight/flashy clothes; avoid leather items.
- For women, a sari or modest salwar with a dupatta is customary.
Tradition notes:
- Shvetambar: Laypeople wear clean, preferably white clothes for puja; modest upper‑body covering is maintained. Sadhus/sadhvis wear white cloth (this applies to ascetics, not laypeople).
- Digambar: Laypeople typically use a dhoti (or pajama) and keep the chest/shoulders covered with an uparna; during abhishek, many temples specifically insist on this. Digambar munis remain unclad—this rule is only for ascetics, not for laypeople.
Temple rules vary by sangh and region; follow your local derasar’s posted maryada. External modesty supports inner lajja (humility), shauch (cleanliness), and simplicity, which are valued in Jain Dharma.