Palani (Tamil Nadu): The administration of the famed Dhandayudhapani Swamy Temple in Palani has lodged a formal police complaint after a youth allegedly played a film song of actor-politician Vijay over the temple’s public address system, officials said on Friday.

The incident occurred at the ‘Yaanai Paadhai’ (Elephant Path) area of the hill shrine and triggered controversy after a video of the act went viral on social media platforms.

Unauthorised access to the temple audio system

According to temple authorities, the youth gained unauthorised access to the microphone control station, which is typically used for security announcements and devotional broadcasts.

Officials said the individual allegedly connected his mobile phone to the temple’s audio console during a brief period when staff members were away from the desk and played a high-volume film track through the speakers.

The complaint was lodged on February 12 against an unidentified person.

Viral video sparks row

The footage, first circulated on Instagram, shows the youth recording the stunt while film music reverberates across the temple premises — a stark departure from the customary devotional atmosphere at the shrine.

The video quickly spread online, prompting outrage among devotees and raising concerns over temple security and protocol breaches.

FIR registered under BNS provisions

Police sources said an FIR has been registered under Sections 299 (malicious act intended to outrage religious feelings) and 302 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Investigators are analysing the digital trail of the viral video to identify the youth and any possible accomplices.

Meanwhile, the temple administration has ordered an internal inquiry into the alleged security lapse and is reviewing measures to prevent unauthorised access to the public address system.

The incident has reignited discussion over safeguarding religious institutions and ensuring stricter monitoring of sensitive areas within temple premises.

PTI