The Madras High Court has intervened in a case involving inappropriate use of social media at the Devi Karumari Amman Temple in Tiruvallur district, directing the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department to take action against the temple trustee and staff members responsible for filming a comedic Instagram reel on the temple premises.
The incident, which involved temple officials dancing and singing to film songs in front of the deity’s portrait, was brought to the court’s attention by petitioner Jayaprakash Nagapattinam. He argued that such actions undermine the sanctity and reverence of the temple environment, prompting him to seek judicial intervention to address the perceived mockery.
Justice M Dhandapani, presiding over the hearing, expressed strong disapproval of the actions of the temple staff, stating, “People visit temples with a lot of devotion. How can a trustee and the temple employees themselves make a mockery by shooting comic videos, that too right in front of the deity’s portrait?” This remark highlights the court’s stance on maintaining the decorum and sacredness of religious sites.
In response to the petition, the court has ordered the HR&CE Department to submit an action taken report by October 29. This report is expected to detail the steps taken against the individuals involved in the incident. Special Government Pleader (HR&CE) NRR Arun Natarajan has been instructed to ensure the compliance of the department with the court’s directive.
This case has sparked a broader discussion on the intersection of social media and cultural sensitivity, particularly regarding the appropriateness of certain types of content in religious settings. While social media offers a platform for creativity and expression, this incident serves as a reminder of the need for balance and respect for religious practices and sentiments.
