Mobile phones banned across major Tamil Nadu temples starting September 1

Chennai: To protect the spiritual sanctity of sacred spaces, visitors across major temples in Tamil Nadu will no longer be permitted to carry mobile phones inside temple grounds starting 1 September, the state's Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department announced.

The fresh mandate enforces a December 2022 ruling by the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court. Despite earlier advisories urging management teams to curb phone usage, authorities observed that many visitors continued taking selfies, filming social media reels, and recording videos within temple premises, disturbing fellow worshippers and disrupting the peaceful environment.

Under the new directives, all photography and videography of deities have been strictly prohibited. The department has also clarified that no special exceptions will be made for high-profile figures, public personalities, or VIPs to film or take photos inside the shrines.

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To manage the transition smoothly, temple administrators have been instructed to set up secure counter facilities near entrances. Devotees can deposit their devices for a uniform charge of ₹5 per phone, with digital receipts generated directly through the Integrated Temple Management System (ITMS).

To ensure complete public awareness before entering, prominent warning signage will be displayed at temple gateways, accompanied by frequent public address system announcements detailing the strict no-phone policy. (Agencies)