The Kerala High Court has ruled that photography and videography are not permitted at the 18 Holy Steps and Thirumuttam in Sabarimala.
The Kerala High Court made an important ruling about photography and videography at the Sabarimala temple. It specifically banned these activities on the 18 steps, called Pathinettampadi, and in the Thirumuttam, the main courtyard outside the inner sanctum. This decision came after a controversy where police officers were seen taking photos on the steps, prompting the Court to step in. Following the Court’s order, the Chief Police Co-ordinator at Sabarimala filed an affidavit, promising that action would be taken against the involved officers.
The Division Bench, consisting of Justice Anil K Narendran and Justice Muralee Krishna S, stated that no photography or videography is allowed in these sacred areas. They emphasized, “Pathinettampadi (18 holy steps) and Thirumuttam of Sabarimala Sannidhanam are not places where photography or videography can be permitted by pilgrims, vloggers, etc.” While the Court did not specify the disciplinary measures for the police officers, it left that decision to the Chief Police Co-ordinator. The Court also expressed concern over certain practices at the Malikappuram temple, another site in the Sabarimala complex. In recent years, some pilgrims have been seen throwing clothes on the temple roof, pouring turmeric on the walls, and rolling coconuts around the temple. The Court clarified that these actions are not part of the temple’s traditional rituals and advised against them.
The Court stated that throwing clothes on the roof of Malikappuram Temple, pouring turmeric powder on its walls, and rolling coconuts around the temple are not traditional practices. Therefore, pilgrims should be asked to refrain from these actions. The Travancore Devaswom Board is responsible for informing pilgrims through the Virtual-Q platform and various media that these activities are not part of the temple’s customs and should be avoided.
Cause Title: Suo Motu v. State of Kerala & Ors.
