The Mahakaleshwar Temple Management Committee has imposed a penalty of Rs 50,000 on a private security agency and initiated disciplinary action against temple staff following a social media reel that showed a couple getting engaged on the temple premises. The video, which went viral, allegedly violated the temple's norms governing photography and videography.
Incident Details
The reel was uploaded on May 26 by a visitor from Delhi. It depicted a couple getting engaged in the Ganesh Mandapam area of the Mahakal temple complex. According to reports, the couple entered the temple under a VIP protocol arrangement. The video quickly gained traction on social media, sparking criticism for using the religious site to create personal social media content.
Inquiry and Action
Temple authorities became aware of the video after it went viral on May 28. They conducted an inquiry into the circumstances of its recording. On Friday, action was taken against the security agency and temple personnel linked to the incident.
Ashish Phalwadia, public relations officer of the temple committee, stated: “The temple management committee has imposed a penalty of Rs 50,000 on the security agency. The attendant seen in the video has been permanently barred from entry through all special gates of the temple. A warning has been issued to the concerned protocol official/priest, and show-cause notices are being served to temple employees found responsible for the lapse. We are also examining what action can be taken against the couple.”
Rules Violation
Officials said the incident amounted to a violation of rules governing photography and videography on the temple premises. “Photography, videography and reel-making are not permitted on the temple premises without prior approval from the temple administration. Special permission for videography or photography is granted only under specific circumstances after due approval,” Phalwadia added.
The temple committee's swift response underscores its commitment to preserving the sanctity of the religious site and ensuring compliance with established guidelines.
