"They cause irreparable damage to architecture and fine carvings on wall, besides disturbing devotees"

Film and television serial shootings in temples have become a cause for concern for archaeologists and devotees.

Not withstanding the ban, shootings have become a regular affair in Mahalingaswamy temple at Thiruvidaimarudur, Sarabeswarar temple at Thirubhuvanam and Veezhinathaswamy temple at Thiruveezhimizhalai and other ancient temples in the composite Thanjavur district.

“Thirty years ago, there were some provisions allowing shooting if the film has something to do with the history of the temple. Even then it was done only outside the temple,” said R. Nagasamy, former director of Department of Archaeology, who has obtained photographs of film shootings of the film ‘Aranmanai 2’, starring Sundar.C.

He said temples are not film studios. “The sanctity of the environment should be protected at all cost. Film shooting for days together not only desecrate the temple, but also causes irreparable damage to the architecture and fine carvings on the wall, besides disturbing devotees visiting temples for worship,” Mr. Nagasamy told The Hindu .

While the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department does not permit shooting in temples under its control, Saivaite mutts encourage the activity in temples managed by them. A senior official of the HR&CE, said the administration of the temples was in the hands of the department. “Even in these temples shootings should not be permitted,” he said.

Former School Education Minister Thangam Thennarasu, who also held the portfolio of Archaeology, said during his tenure an order was issued banning film shootings at archaeological sites.

Film producers and directors choose temples as they not only provide a perfect ambience, but also bring down the cost substantially for creating sets.

“Even poor countries such as Cambodia and Thailand do not allow shootings in ancient temples and historical sites. In Angkor Wat, you cannot see even a petty shop in the 100-meter vicinity. We have to learn from these countries to protect or historical monuments, Dr. Nagasamy said.