Bengaluru: In a move aimed at curbing use of mobile phones inside temples, the Muzrai and Religious Endowment Department has banned use of cell phones in all Muzrai temples of the State.

In a circular issued on Monday, the Department said that the use of cell phones in the premises of temples is increasing by the day of late. The sound generated by cell phones inside temples is disturbing the devoutness of devotees and also proving to be an irritant for temple priests and other staff during the conduct of pujas and rituals. In this backdrop, the devotees are asked to switch off their cell phones inside the temple premises. Also, the Executive Officers of all Muzrai temples have been instructed to put up notice board in this regard, the circular said.