Five strict restrictions have been imposed for this year’s annual Nallur Kandaswamy Temple festival, according to Jaffna Municipal Mayor Mathivathani Vivekanandarajah.

The annual festival is scheduled to commence on August 17 with the flag-hoisting ceremony.

Speaking at a preliminary discussion held regarding festival arrangements, the Mayor said the restrictions were introduced based on complaints received during previous years.

Accordingly, playing cinema songs and engaging in dancing or entertainment activities at commercial stalls during the festival period have been prohibited. Authorities have stated that sound and lighting equipment belonging to violators will be confiscated.

The display of non-religious videos, visuals, and advertisements during the festival period has also been banned.

The use of drone cameras within the temple premises has been completely prohibited, and legal action will be taken against those who violate the restriction.

In addition, commercial activities and begging within the festival area marked in red and white have also been banned, with goods belonging to violators subject to confiscation.