The Tamil Nadu government, led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, has announced a new rule banning smartphones in 52 prominent temples across the state. This regulation, which took effect on Tuesday, aims to maintain a peaceful environment for worshippers.
However, phones without cameras will still be permitted inside the temple grounds. According to officials from the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department, devotees who bring smartphones must check them in at designated counters at the temple entrances. A small fee of ₹5 will be charged for each phone deposited.
This decision follows guidance from the Madras High Court as concerns have arisen regarding worshippers taking photos and videos, including selfies and short clips for social media, inside temple premises. HR&CE Minister S. Ramesh explained that this move is intended to enhance the spiritual atmosphere and reduce disturbances for other devotees.
Over time, an increasing number of visitors have reportedly begun recording videos of deities and idols, which has raised issues among temple-goers. Previous prohibitions on mobile phones have already been in place at several well-known temples, including those in Palani, Tiruchendur, Madurai, and Rameswaram.
To manage the phone deposit system effectively, worshippers will receive a token upon depositing their smartphones. This token must be presented later to retrieve the phone, ensuring that staff can verify the owner’s details and confirm the phone model.
At the Devarajaswamy-Athi Varadar Temple in Kanchipuram, additional measures are being implemented, such as recording devotees’ photos alongside their phone details. Similar arrangements are being made at other temples, including the Arunachaleshwarar Temple in Tiruvannamalai.
The ₹5 fee is not intended to generate profit, according to the HR&CE Department. Instead, the funds will cover costs associated with managing the phone deposit system, including staffing and securing the phones.
Temple staff have voiced some concerns about the added responsibility of managing smartphones. One employee noted that keeping track of so many devices could lead to confusion, especially during busy periods like festivals.
While some devotees have initially opposed the new rule, authorities are hopeful that once they explain that phones without cameras are still allowed, worshippers will adapt to this change.
