DHARMASTHALA: It is imperative that traditions governing sanctity of religious places , Sabarimala included, be preserved for all times. Society must understand the intention with which these traditions have been formulated and not confused with devotion, which can be performed from one's own home, said D Veerendra Heggade , dharmadhikari, Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala.Interacting with reporters here on Tuesday, Heggade, when asked on permitting entry of women to Sabarimala Temple, said he is aware of such restrictions (on women) being in force in religious places abroad. Some such restrictions add to the overall divinity of the religious place and help in preserving the local customs and traditions that govern conduct of devotees going there, he said.Noting that traditions at Sri Kshetra is governed by the agama shastra followed by temples in Kerala, Heggade said much more than the question of entry of women into temples, it is more a question of upholding time tested beliefs. The traditions are meant to build character in individuals including the 48-day vratha that Ayyappa maladharis are expected to follow assiduously, Heggade said.When the Ayyappa vrathadharis can undergo this demanding 48-day penance including abstinence, it is also imperative that other devotees too follow suit. Ban on entry of women is also to help with the tradition of allowing men folk going to the temple observe self-control, he said adding it should not be seen as a move to deny equality to women and also prevent it's possible misuse in the guise of upholding equality.

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