The Government of Karnataka has now unveiled extremely strict new rules covering filming of videos and creation of reels at temples governed by the Department of Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments, otherwise the Muzrai Department. Following increased social media activity, all institutions must remain sanctified and spirit-filled, says the rules.
Highlights of New Rule
- Permission Before: Individuals or teams within a studio of video cameras, reels, short films, or a movie shall take written permission from a temple authority before shooting it.
- Filming Costs: A charge of up to ₹15,000 per day, which may vary based on the scale and quality of the shoot.
- Sanctum Sanctorum Filming Ban: Photos and videography within the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) are strictly prohibited.
- No Commercial Content: Any content that is considered commercial, promotional or inappropriate to a religious setting will be prohibited.
Reason Behind the Move
Social media reels and promotional film shoots inside the temple walls have shot up in popularity, the temple officials said. Officials worried that uncontrolled filming too frequently disrupts devotees, violates traditional norms and detracts from the sacred environment.
The new policy seeks to:
- Keep up with order and etiquette in temple premises.
- Prevent entertainment content from misusing religious facilities or religious spaces.
- Respect devotional and cultural values.
Implementation and Oversight
Temple administrators have been directed to implement the guidelines to the letter. Penalties for violations, permissions being revoked or additional legal action under applicable law may result.
Ordinary devotees who take personal photographs outside areas where it is forbidden will not be restricted, the government said, so long as they comply with temple practices.
In the same line as a move by the Karnataka administration to find a balance between technological trends and the protection of religious heritage and traditions, it is another notable move for India.
