Lalbagh plans ban on reels and wedding shoots to protect wildlife and visitors

Bengaluru’s iconic Lalbagh Botanical Garden is preparing strict curbs on reels, modelling shoots and pre-wedding photography after rising complaints, safety risks and damage to flora and fauna.

Lalbagh Botanical Garden, one of Bengaluru’s most visited green spaces, is moving towards imposing strict restrictions on reels, modelling videos and pre-wedding or post-wedding shoots. The decision comes after a surge in such activities, which has increasingly disrupted the peaceful environment of the garden.

In recent months, staff have noticed a sharp increase in filming activities, ranging from social media reels to full-scale fashion shoots. These activities have become intrusive for regular visitors, including senior citizens, children, women and tourists who come to enjoy the natural surroundings.

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One of the major concerns is the presence of beehives inside Lalbagh. The use of strong flash lights during shoots poses a risk of triggering bee attacks, creating a safety hazard for the public. Officials have also flagged instances where individuals climb on trees or sit on delicate branches to capture videos, causing harm to the garden’s biodiversity.

The administration has also noted inappropriate behaviour during pre-wedding and modelling shoots, where public space etiquette is ignored, creating discomfort for other visitors. The botanical garden, known for its rich plant diversity and serene walking paths, has seen increasing complaints from morning walkers and weekend visitors who say the filming culture is taking away from the experience.

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A formal proposal is now being prepared to restrict film shoots, reels, modelling videos and wedding-related photography inside Lalbagh. This move follows the recent decision to prohibit similar activities in Cubbon Park. The upcoming proposal is expected to be submitted within a week after internal discussions.