A school in Thrissur, Kerala, has sparked a controversy after it reportedly barred a Class 3 student from wearing black clothes during his Sabarimala Vratham, the traditional austerity period observed by devotees ahead of their pilgrimage to the hill shrine.
The incident took place at Sree Gokulam Public School, which has defended its decision by citing its strict uniform policy. School authorities said that students are required to adhere to the prescribed dress code at all times on campus and that this rule is clearly communicated during admission.
According to school officials, the parents were informed about the uniform policy when the matter arose on November 3, after the child came dressed in black. The student has not attended school since the incident.
The matter has since drawn criticism from several Hindu right-wing organisations, who accused the school of showing disrespect toward religious practices and demanded that it allow flexibility for students observing religious austerities.
As part of the 41-day Vratham, devotees preparing for the Sabarimala pilgrimage wear simple, dark-coloured clothing—usually black or blue—to symbolise detachment and humility. The practice is observed during the Malayalam month of Vrischikam (November–December) and continues until the Mandala Pooja, the culmination of the pilgrimage.
The observance involves strict discipline, celibacy, and prayer, with devotees expected to renounce material comforts. The school’s decision has reignited debate over how institutions should balance uniform regulations with religious and cultural traditions, especially in a state as religiously diverse as Kerala.
