Lalbagh Botanical Garden to ban all types of photography and videography

Bengaluru

Following the Karnataka government's recent prohibition on all types of filming, including cinematic and pre-wedding shoots, in Cubbon Park, the Lalbagh Botanical Garden is now moving to impose similar restrictions.

The Department of Horticulture is in the final stages of preparing a proposal to ban all forms of photo and video shoots, including pre-wedding and post-wedding shoots, baby shower and modelling portfolios, Instagram reels, and commercial filming, to protect the park's fragile ecosystem.

The move stems from the understanding that a clean environment, healthy soil, and suitable habitats for animal, bird, and plant species are crucial for life. In the stressful urban life of Bengaluru, parks serve as vital green lung spaces for relaxation. To preserve this historical park, public cooperation in its upkeep is essential, prompting the Horticulture Department to enforce stricter measures.

Officials stated that the primary objective of these restrictions is to prevent disturbance to the public and preserve the environment.

Joint Director of the Horticulture Department, M. Jagadeesh, explained, "Lalbagh is not just a garden of plants and trees; it is a living ecosystem. Protecting the environment is not only the department's duty but also the responsibility of every citizen who uses the park. Therefore, it has been decided to apply the same rules to Lalbagh as those implemented in Cubbon Park.

An expert committee, headed by former IFS officer and environmental expert A.N. Yellappa Reddy, provided key insights. Reddy stated that loud speakers and artificial lights used in wedding and modelling shoots disturb bees and nesting birds. He cited instances where people have been stung by bees after their hives were agitated by flashlights.