Archive · 3 Sep 2026
Tamil Nadu Bans Smartphones Inside 52 Major Temples
Tamil Nadu is stopping people from taking smartphones into 52 major temples.
People also cannot take pictures of gods or record ceremonies inside.
Visitors with camera phones must leave them at a counter near the entrance.
Depositing a phone costs ₹5, and visitors receive a token to get it back.
Phones without cameras are allowed inside.
The rule follows an order from the Madras High Court in 2022.
The court said phones could disturb temple peace and affect the temples' sanctity and security.
Some people support the rule, while others worry about long lines and the safety of deposited phones.
Tamil Nadu has banned smartphones in 52 major temples, effective immediately according to the report.
Devotees cannot photograph deities or record rituals inside the temple premises.
Visitors must deposit camera-equipped phones at entrance counters for ₹5 and collect them using a token or acknowledgement slip.
The restriction follows a 2022 Madras High Court order citing temple sanctity, security and devotional focus.
Supporters welcomed the quieter atmosphere, while critics raised concerns about phone security and queues.
- Who
- The Tamil Nadu government, announced through Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Minister S Ramesh, is enforcing the restriction.
- What
- Camera-equipped smartphones are banned inside 52 designated temples, and photography and video recording are prohibited.
- When
- The restriction is reported to take effect immediately; the article does not provide a calendar date.
- Where
- Inside 52 major temples in Tamil Nadu.
- Why
- The government cited repeated photography and video recording, while the 2022 court order cited temple sanctity, security and maintaining devotees' attention.
Supporters
Critics
Temple atmosphere
Supporters
The restriction can help preserve a peaceful atmosphere, temple decorum and sanctity.
Critics
Critics did not specifically dispute the goal but questioned whether the deposit system would create practical problems.
Phone deposits
Supporters
Entrance counters provide a way for devotees to comply while retrieving their phones afterward with a token or acknowledgement slip.
Critics
Critics are concerned about the security of smartphones left with temple authorities.
Visitor convenience
Supporters
Removing phones may reduce distractions and prevent unauthorized photographs or recordings of deities and rituals.
Critics
The deposit process could produce long queues at temple entrances.
- Temples covered
- 52 major temples in Tamil Nadu
- Deposit fee
- ₹5 per phone
- Collection process
- Devotees receive an acknowledgement slip or plastic token
- Exception
- Phones without cameras may be taken inside
- Legal basis
- A 2022 Madras High Court order
- Related restrictions
- Mobile phones are also reportedly prohibited at Tirupati and Kashi Vishwanath