The Kerala High Court has prohibited photography and videography on the sacred Pathinettampadi (18 steps) at the Sabarimala temple, reaffirming its sanctity and religious significance. The court emphasized that the privacy and spiritual sentiments of devotees must be respected.
Background:
The Pathinettampadi, considered highly sacred by Ayyappa devotees, is a central element of the pilgrimage to the Sabarimala temple. Recent incidents of photography and videography on the steps have raised concerns over potential disruptions to the sanctity of the temple and the faith of pilgrims.
Court’s Rationale:
The High Court observed that the Pathinettampadi holds profound religious importance, and capturing images or videos could detract from the spiritual atmosphere. It noted that such activities could also lead to commercialization and exploitation of sacred practices.
The court directed the temple administration to ensure strict compliance with this prohibition and take necessary measures to inform devotees about the restriction.
Existing Measures:
The Sabarimala temple already has guidelines in place to regulate the behavior of pilgrims and maintain the sanctity of the premises. The court’s directive reinforces these rules, aiming to preserve the spiritual ambiance and cultural heritage of the temple.
Conclusion:
The High Court’s decision underscores the need to uphold the sanctity of religious spaces and rituals. By prohibiting photography and videography on the Pathinettampadi, it seeks to protect the spiritual experience of millions of devotees who visit Sabarimala each year.