Temples are sacred worship spaces, not film production sets : Kerala High Court

Court seeks clarification from Kerala Government and Cochin Devaswom Board

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) – Temples are primarily places of worship, and they cannot be used as locations for making non-religious films, the Kerala High Court observed in an important ruling. The High Court has sought an explanation from the State Government as well as the Cochin Devaswom Board, the governing body of temples in the region, including the temple in question, regarding their decision to permit film shooting in this sacred setting. This observation was made while hearing a petition challenging the permission given for filming at the Tripunithura Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple.

The petition questioned the appropriateness of allowing non-religious films to be shot within temple premises. It argued that such activities not only disregard the sanctity of worship but also risk hurting the sentiments of believers who frequent these sites for spiritual practices.

The petition also pointed out specific incidents, including reports that some actors involved in the film were seen consuming alcohol and entering the temple premises wearing footwear during a festival season.

The petition argues that allowing non-religious filming in temples violates established Hindu shrine rules and contributes to a broader trend of commercialisation that threatens the core values of worship and devotion.

The court also reiterated the importance of preserving the sanctity of religious sites, drawing attention to the potential disrespect caused by commercial filming.

Editorial Perspective

• These are the consequences of the Government’s control over Hindu temples. Hindus across the country must unite, protest, and force the Government to hand over temple management to devout Hindus.

The Centre and State Governments should promptly expel the Bangladeshi infiltrators by implementing the NRC process !