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Kedarnath Bans Reels & Videography in Temple Courtyard for Pilgrim Season

The Rudraprayag administration has imposed a strict ban on using mobile phones, cameras, or drones for videography and making reels within the Kedarnath temple courtyard to preserve its dignity. Superintendent of Police Niharika Tomar announced the measures ahead of the temple's reopening on April 22, noting that a locker system is available for devotees' phones. Authorities have already taken action against two unauthorised drones and will continue enforcement. The appeal comes as the Char Dham Yatra commences, drawing record numbers of pilgrims to the sacred site.

Key Points: Kedarnath Temple Bans Mobile Phones, Drones for Videography

  • Complete ban on mobile/drone videography in temple
  • Locker system for phones provided
  • Action against unauthorised drones
  • Rules to maintain sanctity during Char Dham Yatra
2 min read

"Making reels or videography in Kedarnath temple courtyard is prohibited": Rudraprayag SP

Rudraprayag SP announces a complete ban on reels and videography within Kedarnath temple premises to maintain sanctity. Lockers provided.

"making any kind of reels or videography in the temple courtyard is prohibited - SP Niharika Tomar"

Rudraprayag, April 21

Rudraprayag Superintendent of Police Niharika Tomar said on Tuesday that the administration has tightened security and management arrangements in Kedarnath Dham during the pilgrimage season.

She said that the use of mobile phones, drones, or any cameras for videography has been completely banned within the temple premises.

"The gates of Kedarnath Dham are opening on April 22 at 8:00 AM. The 'Doli' (palanquin) has already arrived here, and along with it, a large number of devotees have also come. In accordance with the guidelines issued this time, making any kind of reels or videography in the temple courtyard is prohibited. The use of mobile phones within our perimeter is also prohibited," SP Tomar told ANI.

The official further said that a mobile counter and locker system has also been established by the temple administration.

"I would like to appeal to all devotees not to do any kind of videography or make reels in the temple premises so that its dignity and sanctity are maintained," SP Niharika Tomar said.

"Along with this, flying drones without permission is also prohibited here. Today, we have taken action against two drones that were being flown unauthorised. This will continue in the future as well. Therefore, I would request and appeal to everyone not to engage in such unauthorised activities for the sake of the security and sanctity of the Dham," the official said.

The administration has urged devotees to follow the rules and help maintain the sanctity of the temple premises.

With the Char Dham Yatra officially commenced on April 19 (Akshaya Tritiya), record numbers of pilgrims have already gathered at the base camps.

Despite the festive air, authorities have issued advisories for devotees to carry heavy woollens, as temperatures remain near freezing due to the recent snow.

As the sun rises on April 22, the echoing sound of conch shells and chants of "Kedar Baba Ki Jai" will mark the end of the six-month winter hiatus, reopening one of India's most sacred pilgrimage sites to the world.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally! The last time I went, it was so difficult to have a quiet moment of darshan because everyone was busy taking selfies and videos. This rule respects the true purpose of the yatra. Jai Kedar Baba!
R
Rohit P
I understand the need for sanctity, but a complete ban on mobile phones seems extreme. What if there's a family emergency? The locker system is there, but what about quick, essential communication? The rule could be a bit more practical.
M
Meera T
Good move by SP Niharika Tomar. Drones are a serious security concern anywhere, let alone a sensitive pilgrimage site. Action against unauthorized drones is absolutely necessary. Safety first.
S
Siddharth J
The atmosphere described in the last paragraph is what we must protect. The sound of conch shells, not camera shutters. Hope all devotees cooperate. The yatra is about faith, not content creation.
K
Kavya N
My parents are elderly and going this year. I'm relieved to know there will be stricter management. The crowds can be chaotic. This should help maintain order and ensure a smoother darshan for everyone. 👍

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