Tamil Nadu temples ease mobile phone restrictions

The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department in Tamil Nadu has eased restrictions regarding mobile phones in major temples following objections from devotees. Under the revised rules, worshippers are now permitted to carry mobile phones inside temple premises, provided the devices remain switched off.

Despite this relaxation, a strict ban on photography and video recording within the temple complexes remains in effect. Authorities have stated that violators will face fines. The decision aims to balance devotee convenience with the need to maintain a peaceful atmosphere for worship.

The changes affect several prominent sites in the Tiruchirappalli district, including the Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple, Samayapuram Mariamman Temple, Jambukeswarar Temple in Thiruvanaikoil, Vekkali Amman Temple in Voraiyur, and Arulmigu Thayumanavar Swami Temple in Rockfort.

For those who prefer not to carry their devices, phone storage facilities remain available. At the Voraiyur and Thiruvanaikoil temples, a fee of 5 rupees per phone is charged, while storage is free at the Srirangam, Samayapuram, and Rockfort temples.