Tamil Nadu has been moving toward stricter mobile phone restrictions in temples, and the ban is being rolled out more widely now.

What’s happening

The Madras High Court had earlier directed the Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department to ban mobile phone usage inside all temples in Tamil Nadu to preserve "purity and sanctity".

Reasons cited: photos/videos distract devotees, violate Agama rules, raise security concerns for idols, and reports of women devotees being photographed without consent.

The court also ordered that phone deposit lockers/counters be installed so devotees don’t face inconvenience. 

What temples are already doing

Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai: ban in place since 2018

Palani Dhandayuthapani Swamy Temple: ban came into force with deposit points charging Rs 5 and giving digital receipts

Tiruchendur Subramaniya Swamy Temple: measures already taken, with self-help groups supervising and security counters for deposit

Marudhamalai Temple, Coimbatore: recent ban from Rajagopuram entrance covering all shrines 

September 1 update

I’m not seeing an official HR&CE circular specifically naming "September 1, 2026" as the statewide start date in the latest reports I found. What’s clear is that the HC direction applies to all TN temples, and individual major temples have been implementing deposit counters and bans in phases over the last couple of years. It’s likely your post is referring to the next phase of enforcement across major temples from Sept 1.

What to expect as a devotee

Deposit counters: Most major temples now have lockers or manned counters at the entrance where you can safely deposit phones before darshan

No calls, photos, or videos inside from the main gopuram/entrance onward

Goal: less distraction, better crowd management, and maintaining the devotional atmosphere . 

If you’re planning to visit a major temple in TN after Sept 1, carry cash/change for the deposit fee where applicable, and plan to switch off your phone before the Rajagopuram.