Reining In 'Reel Rush': Karnataka Tightens Filming Rules In Muzrai Temples

Last Updated:February 20, 2026, 18:54 IST

The Karnataka government has made it mandatory to obtain prior permission and pay prescribed fees for any professional or commercial filming in 'A' and 'B' category temples

In a bid to curb the growing nuisance of unauthorised reels and video shoots inside temple premises, the Karnataka government has announced stricter enforcement of filming regulations in Muzrai temples across the state.

The Muzrai Department has made it mandatory to obtain prior permission and pay prescribed fees for any kind of professional or commercial filming in “A" and “B" category temples. The move comes amid concerns over social media influencers and YouTubers crowding temple premises and allegedly compromising the sanctity of religious spaces.

Karnataka Minister Ramalinga Reddy clarified that the step is aimed at regulating activities, not generating revenue.

“It is not done with the intention of taking money. But many people were coming and shooting in temples, making films and doing various things. So, the idea is that whoever wants to do such activities must take permission. That is the only reason. Money is not important there; permission is important," he said.

Old Rules, Stricter Enforcement

While rules governing paid filming of movies, serials, and documentaries in temples were introduced in 2003 and later updated in 2013, the government has now decided to strictly reinforce them in response to the surge in social media content creation.

“This is not a new rule made now. It existed earlier as well. They had issued a circular two years ago, and now they have just made it a little more strict. This was done when the BJP government was in power," Reddy said, adding that the current directive is a continuation of existing policy.

The minister noted that most filming requests are for “A" and “B" category temples, which are generally prominent shrines, often located in rural areas.

“People usually don’t go to smaller temples. They go only to A and B category temples for shooting. Such temples are generally located in rural areas," he said.

Concern Over Content and Messaging

Reddy also expressed concern about the kind of content being created within temple premises, warning that inappropriate messaging could create unnecessary issues.

“Many people make all kinds of reels. The message they give should be appropriate. If the message is not right, it can create problems. The Commissioner has said it in that way. It is actually a good thing," he said.

He added that the government is yet to finalise or publicise the exact fee structure. “I don’t know the exact amount. There will be a limit. It is not that they want to earn money from it and put it in the temple hundi or anything like that. It is only to have some restrictions," he said.

Aim to Restore Decorum

Officials said the directive is intended to restore decorum within temple premises and ensure that devotees are not disturbed by large-scale or unregulated filming activities.

With the increasing influx of digital creators turning temple grounds into shooting locations for reels, short films, and promotional content, the government hopes the renewed enforcement of permission protocols will strike a balance between creative expression and preservation of spiritual sanctity.

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