High Court Questions Film Shoots in Temples, Cites Sanctity Concerns

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala High Court has emphasised that temples are meant for worship and should not be used for commercial film shoots.

This observation came in response to a petition challenging the permission granted for filming at the Thrippunithura Sree Poornathrayeesa temple.

The court stressed the need to uphold the sanctity of religious places, highlighting the potential disrespect caused by commercial activities like filming.

The petition argued that allowing non-religious films in temple premises undermines the sacredness of the space and could offend devotees. It also cited instances of misconduct during festivals, such as mahouts consuming alcohol and visitors entering temples with sandals, further compromising the temple’s sanctity.

The High Court has now sought explanations from the Kerala government and the Cochin Devaswom Board, which oversees the temple, on why such permissions were granted.

The petition also contends that filming in temples violates established guidelines for Hindu shrines and contributes to the growing commercialisation of sacred spaces.