No More Reels: Tamil Nadu Bans Mobile Phones In Major Temples From September 1

If you’re planning a temple visit in Tamil Nadu after September 1, leave the selfie habit at home. The state’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department has announced a complete ban on mobile phones inside all major temples, aiming to protect the sanctity of these sacred spaces and put a stop to unauthorized photography and viral reels.

Why The Ban Is Happening

The decision follows a wave of videos showing temple sanctum sanctorums being filmed and shared online — footage many devotees found disrespectful to the sacredness of these spaces. HR&CE Minister Ramesh confirmed the move while speaking to reporters at Srirangam in Tiruchi, stating that dedicated phone-deposit counters will be set up at all major temples to make the rule easy to follow.

Tamil Nadu: The New Temple Rule

How The New System Will Work

Temples have been given 20 days to set up secure cloak-room-style facilities where devotees can deposit their phones before entering. Here’s what to expect:

• Devotees hand over phones at designated counters near the entrance
• A nominal Rs 5 fee is charged per phone, with receipts generated through the ITMS
• Phones are returned once darshan is complete
• Volunteers or designated staff will operate the counters, while CCTV cameras monitor the facility for device security

Notices explaining the restriction will be prominently displayed at temple entrances and other key locations, so visitors know what to expect before they arrive.

Stricter Rules For VIP Visits Too

The ban isn’t limited to regular devotees. The HR&CE department has also tightened protocols for visits by actors, political leaders, and other prominent personalities. Temple authorities must now notify the HR&CE Commissioner at least a day in advance before any VIP visit, including details like the date, time, and number of accompanying people — all aimed at ensuring such visits don’t disrupt regular darshan for everyday worshippers.

A Move Backed By The Courts

This isn’t a sudden decision. The restriction aligns with earlier directions from the Madras High Court, which had previously instructed the Tamil Nadu government to implement phone restrictions in temples to preserve their purity and sanctity. The HR&CE department confirmed the new measures are being rolled out in line with those existing court directives.

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