Mobile Phones Allowed in Tamil Nadu Temples, but Devotees Must Switch Them Off

The Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department has relaxed restrictions on carrying mobile phones into temples. Devotees can now take their phones inside, but they must switch them off before entering. Restrictions on photography, video recording and other disruptive mobile phone activities will remain in place.

Mobile Phone Ban Relaxed at 52 Temples

From September 1, 2026, the HR&CE Department had prohibited devotees from carrying mobile phones into 52 temples across Tamil Nadu. The temples included the Palani Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple, Tiruchendur Subramaniya Swamy Temple, Madurai Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, Rameswaram Ramanathaswamy Temple, Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tiruttani Subramaniya Swamy Temple and Azhagar Temple in Madurai.

The restrictions were introduced to preserve the sanctity and peaceful atmosphere of places of worship and prevent disturbances to devotees. HR&CE Minister S. Ramesh had said the measure was intended to prevent visitors from photographing or recording videos of deities and idols inside temples.

Devotees Faced Long Queues at Phone Deposit Counters

Under the earlier system, devotees had to deposit their mobile phones in designated security lockers before entering the temples. A fee of ₹5 was reportedly charged for storing a mobile phone.

At some temples, including the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, devotees also faced charges for storing items such as chargers, headphones and wristwatches, according to the report.

The process created inconvenience, with visitors having to wait in long queues to deposit their belongings and collect them after darshan. Devotees consequently requested the department to withdraw the restrictions.

Photography and Video Recording Remain Prohibited

Following consultations on the practical difficulties faced by devotees, the HR&CE Department has relaxed the restrictions on carrying mobile phones inside temples.

Under the revised arrangement:

- Mobile phones are permitted: Devotees can carry their phones inside the temples covered by the revised rules.

- Phones must be switched off: Visitors must turn off their mobile phones before entering.

- Photography remains prohibited: Taking photographs or recording videos of idols and rituals is not permitted.

- Selfies and reels are banned: Devotees cannot use their phones to take selfies, create reels or make social media posts in violation of temple restrictions.

- Violations may invite action: The department has warned of strict action against those who disregard the rules.

The relaxation is intended to make temple visits more convenient while maintaining the sanctity and peaceful atmosphere of religious places. Devotees should follow the instructions displayed at individual temples.