No Mobile Phones Inside Major Tamil Nadu Temples from September 1, 2026

Chennai: Devotees visiting major temples across Tamil Nadu will soon have to leave their mobile phones outside the temple premises. The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department has announced that the use and carrying of mobile phones inside designated major temples will be prohibited from September 1, 2026.

The new measure aims to preserve the sanctity and spiritual atmosphere of temples and prevent unauthorised photography, videography and social media recordings. Temple authorities have also been instructed not to permit photographs, videos, reels or other recordings of deities within the temple premises.

To facilitate the new rule, major temples have been directed to establish secure mobile phone deposit counters at their entrances. Devotees will be able to leave their phones at these facilities before proceeding for darshan. Reports indicate that some temples may charge a nominal fee of ₹5 per device for the storage facility.

The department has also introduced guidelines concerning visits by VIPs, public figures and other prominent personalities. Their visits should not disrupt the darshan or inconvenience ordinary devotees. Temple authorities have been asked to regulate photography and recording during such visits as well.

The move is expected to encourage devotees to focus more fully on worship and temple rituals without digital distractions. Pilgrims planning to visit major Tamil Nadu temples from September onwards are advised to make necessary arrangements and check the temple’s entry guidelines before beginning their journey.