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Synopsis

The Kerala High Court has taken up a significant case regarding the regulation of non-Hindu entry and filming activities within temples managed by the Cochin Devaswom Board (CDB). The Division Bench of Justice Anil K Narendran and Justice PG Ajith Kumar granted CDB two weeks to file a counter affidavit addressing the issues raised by the petitioners.

The petition brought by two devotees of Lord Poornathrayeesa, Dileep Menon and another, expressed concerns over the use of the Poornathrayeesa temple grounds in Tripunithura for filming purposes. The petitioners, represented by advocates T Sanjay, Sanil Kumar G, and Ardhra Krishna, urged the court to issue directives restricting non-Hindu entry and prohibiting filming and intoxicated entry at temples under CDB’s administration.

According to the petitioners, the Malayalam movie Vishesham was partially shot within the temple's compound, with several crew members reportedly of non-Hindu faith entering the sacred premises. This, the petitioners claimed, was a clear violation of religious sanctity and decorum. Furthermore, the petitioners highlighted that similar filming activities have taken place at other temples, including the renowned Guruvayur temple, despite existing restrictions.

The petitioners argued that such activities not only disturb the spiritual atmosphere of the temples but also risk offending devotees. They contended that allowing filming for commercial purposes unrelated to temple practices or deities breaches the Kerala Hindu Places of Public Worship (Authorization of Entry) Rules, 1965. Additionally, the petition criticised the CDB for allegedly permitting individuals under the influence of alcohol to enter temple premises.

During the previous hearing, CDB's standing counsel, KP Sudheer, informed the court that the board intends to regulate temple activities under Rule 8 of the 1965 Rules and would provide further details in its counter affidavit.

The matter is scheduled to be revisited on November 25, by which time the CDB is expected to submit its response.

Notably, the Madras High Court through an order dated January 30, 2024, restricted the entry of non-hindus  inside the Palani Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple. The court instructed the Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) department of the state government to place signs at the temple, as well as at all other Hindu temples, indicating that non-Hindus are not allowed beyond the Kodimaram (flagstaff).

 

Cause Title: Dileep Menon & Anr v. Cochin Devaswom Board & Ors.