Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious Department restricts VIP temple visits

The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department has issued new guidelines to restrict VIP visits to temples, aiming to prevent disruptions to general devotees. Commissioner T. G. Vinay directed that officials must be notified at least one day in advance regarding the visit of celebrities from the film or arts industries and other VIPs. Mandatory details to be provided include the scheduled time of visit and the number of people accompanying the VIP.

Under the new regulations, photography and video recording within temple premises during such visits are strictly prohibited. Officials are instructed to regulate the entry and movement of VIPs to ensure that the sanctity, tradition, and order of the temples are not compromised. Only authorized personnel or staff essential for security and administration will be permitted to accompany VIPs to prevent overcrowding by unnecessary individuals.

Additionally, the department has mandated special cleaning drives for all temples under its administration from August 10 to August 14. These efforts include cleaning sanctums, halls, and walkways, as well as removing vegetation from temple towers and walls, clearing construction waste, and cleaning temple ponds.