Why was a tourist arrested at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple?

A tourist was arrested for using smart glasses with a hidden camera to record videos inside the temple, where filming is prohibited.

What are the rules regarding filming at Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple?

Videography is strictly prohibited inside the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple premises.

Is this the first time someone was caught filming at the temple?

No, a similar incident involving a tourist attempting to record videos occurred in July of the current year.

Home / Crime and Justice / Smart Glasses Fail Inside Temple

Smart Glasses Fail Inside Temple

20 Dec, 2025

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Summary

A Singapore national was arrested for filming inside a temple.
The arrest occurred due to hidden camera smart glasses.
This is a repeat offense for temple filming violations.

Authorities apprehended a Singaporean national on Saturday for allegedly recording videos inside the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple using smart glasses equipped with a hidden camera. The 49-year-old tourist, Thiruneepanar, entered the temple premises despite a strict ban on videography. He is accused of capturing footage of various temple areas, including the northern side and the Thulabharam mandapam.

Temple security personnel noticed the device and immediately intercepted the tourist before he could exit. He was subsequently handed over to the Fort Police station, where a case was registered against him under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for disobeying a lawful order. The police released Thiruneepanar after issuing a notice for him to appear for further investigation.