A prank video featuring Telugu actress Priyanka Jain and her partner Shivakumar

A prank video featuring Telugu actress Priyanka Jain and her partner Shivakumar at Tirumala has sparked controversy. The couple staged a scene during their walk on the sacred Tirumala steps, pretending to spot a cheetah, complete with dramatic sound effects. The video was shared on social media, aiming for entertainment but faced backlash for disrespecting the sanctity of the site.

Devotees and officials from the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) criticized the act as insensitive and inappropriate for a holy location. The TTD has hinted at potential actions, including legal measures, against the duo. Many on social media have expressed anger, emphasizing the importance of respecting sacred places

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about creating content in culturally or religiously significant areas, with calls for stricter regulations to prevent such actions

Necessary Actions should be taken by TTD / GOVT:

When someone records prank or selfie videos at Tirumala, strict actions are necessary to preserve the sanctity of the site and prevent such behavior in the future. Here are some recommended actions:

1. Enforcement of Rules The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) can strengthen existing guidelines prohibiting photography, videography, or content creation in sensitive areas like the temple and footpath. Visible signage should be placed, warning against violations.
2. Fines and Legal Actions Implement heavy fines for violators, ensuring they act as a deterrent. Filing criminal cases under relevant sections for disruption of public peace, disrespect of religious sentiments, or trespassing norms could reinforce the seriousness of such actions.
3. Awareness Campaigns Educate pilgrims through announcements and posters about the spiritual importance of Tirumala and the need for reverence during their visit. Campaigns can highlight how such actions disrespect devotees and disrupt the sanctity of the holy site.
4. Monitoring and Surveillance Increase CCTV surveillance, especially in areas prone to such activities. Deploy more security personnel to monitor activities and prevent content creation on-site.
5. Banning Repeat Offenders Those caught performing such acts can be temporarily or permanently banned from entering Tirumala.
6. Content Removal Collaborate with social media platforms to remove such videos promptly. Encourage platforms to take strict actions against content that disrespects religious or cultural values.
7. Community Involvement Involve local communities and regular devotees in maintaining vigilance and reporting inappropriate behavior.