Bengaluru: Photoshoots before and after weddings are in fashion these days. Couples choose various locations to get clicked to make the occasion memorable for eternity.
One such popular spot was the Udupi Sri Krishna Math, in Karnataka. But no more.
Paryaya Puttige Math, which manages the historic Hindu temple in Udupi, has announced a ban on pre- and post-wedding photoshoots within the temple’s Rathabeedi (car street) premises, reported PTI.
The strict action comes in the wake of serious concerns on the sanctity of the sacred place amid the growing trend of couples, particularly from Karnataka and Kerala, using the temple’s surroundings as a backdrop for elaborate wedding photography sessions.
Regular early morning photoshoots were seen by authorities as inappropriate behaviour and disruption of the spiritual environment.
“The Rathabeedi is not just a road — it is a sacred space walked upon by saints, devotees, and heads of the Ashta Maths for centuries,” Prof. Gopalacharya, a temple functionary and Vedic scholar, told PTI.
He added that this path, which encircles the Krishna temple, is integral to daily rituals, processions, and festivals, and hence must be treated with the reverence it deserves.
Stressing that devotees and tourists are always welcome to Udupi Sri Krishna Math, Prof. Gopalacharya said the directive is meant to only discourage activities that could be viewed as disrespectful.
The new rule came into effect earlier this week, and has been communicated to photographers and wedding planners.
“The Sri Krishna Math is a revered pilgrimage destination and a seat of learning, not just in India but also for devotees abroad. Maintaining its spiritual integrity is our top priority,” said Prasannacharya, administrative secretary of the Paryaya Puttige Math.
The temple, founded in the 13th century by philosopher-saint Madhvacharya — one of the revered ‘Acharya Triya’ alongside Shankaracharya and Ramanujacharya — is a significant religious and cultural hub in coastal Karnataka. The temple draws lakhs of visitors every year.
