Tamil Nadu: The temple management has issued an important notice to devotees visiting the famous Annamalaiyar (Arunachalam) temple in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu.
In order to protect the sanctity of the temple and prevent the shooting of photos, videos and reels in the sanctum sanctorum area, mobile phones have been completely banned inside the temple premises from September 1.
Strict protection of rituals and traditions in Tamil Nadu temples:
The Hindu Religious and Endowments Department has taken this step to protect the ancient traditions of temples. Its main objective is to prevent devotees from wasting time using cameras or phones during darshan and disrupting the darshan. In addition, special restrictions have been imposed on taking photos and videos when celebrities and VIPs visit, and it has been advised to inform the VIPs of their visit in advance.
Details of security centers and fees for keeping phones:
For the convenience of devotees visiting the temple, special security centers have been set up near the main towers of the temple to keep mobile phones safe:
Rajgopura (Eastern side): 2 mobile security centers.
Amman Gopura (Northern side): 2 security centers.
Thirumanjana Gopura (Southern side): 1 security center.
A fee of Rs. 5 can be paid for each mobile phone, a token can be obtained and the phone can be handed over. After the darshan is over, the phone can be returned by showing the token.
Strict action if the rules are violated:
The temple premises are continuously monitored through CCTV cameras. If a mobile phone is found to be carried inside and used in violation of the rules, the management has warned that the phone will be immediately seized and handed over to the police and appropriate legal action will be taken.