The renowned Sri Krishna Math in Udupi, a spiritual landmark with an 800-year-old legacy, draws thousands of devotees and tourists daily. After darshan, it’s a common tradition for visitors to click photographs outside the temple. However, the rising trend of pre- and post-wedding photo shoots near the sacred premises has now led to a ban on such activities.
Couples, especially from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Goa, have been capturing romantic moments near the Kanaka Gopura on Car Street and in front of the Ashta Maths (eight monasteries). These photo sessions, some deemed inappropriate by devotees, have sparked backlash from religious leaders and visitors, particularly women devotees.
In response to growing concerns, Paryaya Puthige Math seer Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji has directed temple authorities to restrict romantic photo shoots around the premises. Photographers have also been urged to discourage couples from posing in ways considered disrespectful to the sanctity of the space.
Gopalacharya, a scholar associated with the Puthige Math, emphasized the significance of the Car Street area, saying, “It holds deep religious importance. Filming romantic videos here, especially during early hours, has become a source of discomfort for seers and devotees. Such behavior undermines the sanctity of the temple surroundings and should be prohibited.”
The temple administration is now taking steps to ensure that devotional decorum is maintained and the spiritual atmosphere preserved for all.
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