Terms and Conditions

1. Acceptance of Terms

By visiting ISKCON Palghar temple, accessing our website (www.iskconpalghar.org), or using any of our services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions, as well as our Privacy Policy.

If you do not agree with any part of these terms, please do not use our facilities or services. We reserve the right to modify these terms at any time, and such modifications will be effective immediately upon posting on our website.

2. Temple Premises and Conduct

Visitor Conduct

All visitors to ISKCON Palghar are expected to maintain appropriate behavior and respect the sanctity of our spiritual environment. The following rules apply:

• Dress Code: Modest and respectful attire is required. Visitors should avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing. Traditional Indian attire is appreciated but not mandatory
• Footwear: Shoes and footwear must be removed before entering the temple hall and other designated areas
• Silence and Respect: Maintain silence in worship areas, especially during deity darshan and arati ceremonies
• Photography: Photography restrictions apply in certain areas. Please follow posted signage and staff instructions
• Prohibited Items: Alcohol, tobacco, drugs, non-vegetarian food, and weapons are strictly prohibited on temple premises
• Children Supervision: Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising their children at all times
• Cleanliness: Help us maintain cleanliness by using designated waste disposal areas

Safety and Security

For the safety of all visitors:

• CCTV cameras are installed throughout the premises for security purposes
• Security checks may be conducted at entry points
• Visitors are requested to follow emergency evacuation procedures if announced
• Lost and found items should be reported to temple management
• ISKCON Palghar is not responsible for any loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings

3. Website Usage

Acceptable Use

When using our website, you agree to:

• Provide accurate and truthful information when registering or making donations
• Not use the website for any unlawful purpose or in violation of these terms
• Not attempt to gain unauthorized access to any part of the website or related systems
• Not transmit any viruses, malware, or harmful code
• Not engage in any activity that interferes with or disrupts website functionality
• Not use automated systems (bots, scrapers) to access the website without permission
• Respect intellectual property rights of all content on the website

Website Availability

While we strive to maintain continuous website availability, we do not guarantee uninterrupted access. The website may be temporarily unavailable due to maintenance, technical issues, or circumstances beyond our control. We are not liable for any loss or inconvenience caused by website downtime.

4. Donations and Contributions

Voluntary Nature

All donations to ISKCON Palghar are voluntary contributions made to support our spiritual and charitable activities. By making a donation, you acknowledge that:

• Donations are made voluntarily without any coercion or promise of specific returns
• All donations are final and non-refundable, except as required by law
• Donation receipts will be provided for tax purposes as per Indian tax regulations
• ISKCON Palghar reserves the right to use donations for temple operations, maintenance, programs, and charitable activities at its discretion
• Specific purpose donations will be used for the designated purpose to the extent possible
• In case a specific project or program is canceled, donations will be redirected to similar activities

Payment Processing

We use secure third-party payment processors for online donations. By making an online donation, you also agree to the terms and conditions of our payment service providers. We do not store complete credit card or banking information on our servers.

5. Programs and Events

Registration and Participation

When registering for temple programs, festivals, or events:

• Accuracy: Provide accurate information during registration
• Eligibility: Ensure you meet any age or other eligibility requirements
• Conduct: Follow program rules and instructions from organizers
• Health: Inform organizers of any health conditions or dietary restrictions
• Changes: ISKCON Palghar reserves the right to modify, reschedule, or cancel programs with or without notice
• Capacity: Programs may have limited capacity and registrations may be on a first-come, first-served basis

Online Programs

For online programs and webinars:

• Access links are for registered participants only and should not be shared
• Recording and redistribution of online content without permission is prohibited
• Technical requirements must be met by participants
• We are not responsible for individual internet connectivity issues

6. Intellectual Property

Copyright and Trademarks

All content on the ISKCON Palghar website and materials, including but not limited to text, images, videos, audio recordings, logos, and graphics, are protected by copyright and trademark laws. This includes:

• ISKCON name, logos, and branding materials
• Deity photographs and artwork
• Educational materials, articles, and publications
• Audio recordings of kirtans, lectures, and bhajans
• Video content from temple events and programs

Usage Rights

You may:

• View and download content for personal, non-commercial use
• Share links to our website on social media
• Quote brief excerpts with proper attribution

You may not:

• Reproduce, distribute, or display content for commercial purposes without written permission
• Modify, adapt, or create derivative works from our content
• Remove copyright notices or attributions
• Use ISKCON branding without authorization

7. Photography and Videography

Temple Policy

Photography and videography policies at ISKCON Palghar:

• Restricted Areas: Photography is prohibited in the sanctum sanctorum and during certain ceremonies unless specifically permitted
• Personal Use: Personal photography for non-commercial purposes is generally allowed in designated areas
• Flash Photography: Flash photography is not permitted during deity darshan and worship ceremonies
• Professional Photography: Professional photography or videography requires prior written permission from temple management
• Drone Usage: Drone photography is strictly prohibited without explicit authorization

Media Release

By attending temple events and programs, you acknowledge that you may be photographed or recorded. ISKCON Palghar may use such photographs and videos for promotional, educational, and documentary purposes without compensation to you. If you object to being photographed, please inform temple staff.

8. Liability and Disclaimers

Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law:

• ISKCON Palghar is not liable for any personal injury, loss, or damage to property occurring on temple premises
• We are not responsible for the actions or omissions of other visitors or third parties
• We do not guarantee specific results from participation in spiritual programs or practices
• We are not liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages
• Our total liability shall not exceed the amount of donation or payment made by you, if any

Medical Disclaimer

While we may offer wellness programs, Ayurvedic consultations, or health-related activities, these are for educational and spiritual purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals for medical concerns.

Assumption of Risk

By participating in temple activities, you acknowledge and accept the inherent risks involved in such activities, including but not limited to physical activities, food service, and large gatherings.

9. User Accounts and Registration

Account Creation

If you create an account on our website:

• You must provide accurate, current, and complete information
• You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials
• You are responsible for all activities that occur under your account
• You must notify us immediately of any unauthorized use of your account
• You must be at least 18 years old or have parental/guardian consent

Account Termination

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate these terms or engage in inappropriate behavior. You may also request account deletion at any time by contacting us.

10. Cancellation and Refund Policy

Program Cancellations

If ISKCON Palghar cancels a paid program or event:

• Full refunds will be provided or credit offered for future programs
• We will make reasonable efforts to notify registered participants
• We are not responsible for travel expenses or other costs incurred

Participant Cancellations

If you need to cancel your registration:

• Cancellations must be made in writing to the temple administration
• Refund eligibility depends on the notice period provided and program-specific policies
• Processing fees and transaction charges are generally non-refundable
• No-shows or late cancellations may not be eligible for refunds

Accommodation Refunds

For guest house or accommodation bookings:

• Cancellations made 7+ days before check-in: 80% refund
• Cancellations made 3-6 days before check-in: 50% refund
• Cancellations made less than 3 days before check-in: No refund
• Special circumstances may be considered on a case-by-case basis

11. Food Service (Prasadam)

ISKCON Palghar offers prasadam (sanctified vegetarian food) to visitors. By accepting prasadam:

• You acknowledge that all food is prepared according to traditional Vedic standards
• You accept that food is prepared in facilities that may process common allergens
• You are responsible for informing staff of any allergies or dietary restrictions
• We make reasonable efforts to accommodate dietary needs but cannot guarantee allergen-free preparation
• Prasadam should be consumed with respect and not wasted
• Outside food and non-vegetarian items are not permitted on temple premises

12. Dispute Resolution

Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of India. Any disputes arising from these terms or your use of temple services shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of courts in Palghar, Maharashtra.

Informal Resolution

In the event of any dispute or concern, we encourage you to first contact temple management to seek an informal resolution. Most concerns can be resolved through friendly discussion and mutual understanding.

13. Miscellaneous Provisions

Severability

If any provision of these terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

Waiver

Our failure to enforce any right or provision of these terms shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision.

Entire Agreement

These Terms and Conditions, together with our Privacy Policy, constitute the entire agreement between you and ISKCON Palghar regarding the use of our facilities and services.

Language

These terms are provided in English. In case of any translation, the English version shall prevail.

14. Special Programs and Memberships

ISKCON Palghar offers various membership programs and special services:

• Life Membership: Terms and benefits are as per the specific membership agreement
• Deity Seva: Regular seva sponsors must adhere to specific commitments and guidelines
• Festival Sponsorships: Sponsorship terms are outlined in individual sponsorship agreements
• Book Distribution: Distributors must follow ISKCON's book distribution guidelines

15. Spiritual Guidance Disclaimer

While ISKCON Palghar provides spiritual education and guidance based on the teachings of Bhagavad Gita and Vedic scriptures:

• Spiritual counseling is for educational and devotional purposes
• We respect individual free will and decision-making
• We do not guarantee specific spiritual outcomes or realizations
• Important life decisions should be made after careful personal consideration
• We encourage consulting appropriate professionals for legal, medical, or financial matters