The Kerala High Court has enacted a ban on vlogging and other forms of filming within the Nadapanthal area of the Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple, except for marriage functions and specific religious ceremonies. This decision comes in response to concerns about inappropriate activities disrupting the sanctity of this revered space.
Justices Anil K Narendran and P G Ajithkumar presided over the case, which was brought forward by two devotees who reported an incident on June 15 where a female painter celebrated her birthday by cutting a cake in the Nadapanthal and filmed the event. This led to public outcry and the subsequent legal action seeking to preserve the temple’s decorum.
The court emphasized that the interior places of the temple, particularly near the eastern ‘Deepastambham,’ are off-limits for videography unless related to the approved religious events. The ruling aims to protect the temple’s environment from disturbances that might affect devotees, including children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities.
Further, the court directed the Guruvayur Devaswom Managing Committee, responsible for the temple’s administration, to monitor and enforce these rules strictly. They are tasked with ensuring that no disruptive activities occur in the Nadapanthal, a critical area meant for sheltering devotees from heat and rain.
If necessary, the Devaswom Administrator is authorized to seek police assistance to maintain order, ensuring that devotees can worship Lord Guruvayurappan without interference. The court’s ruling underscores that the Nadapanthal is not a venue for secular celebrations like birthday parties but a sacred space dedicated to religious devotion and contemplation.
