116-Year-Old Woman Completes Tirumala Trek, TTD Honours Her Devotion
A woman from Chennai, claimed by her family to be 116 years old, has completed the steep trek on foot to the hill shrine of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala, drawing widespread attention for her determination and faith.
Navaneethamma, a resident of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, undertook the arduous journey along the footpath leading to one of Hinduism's most revered temples. Images of her ascent circulated on social media, prompting admiration from devotees and officials alike.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu acknowledged her effort on social media, stating, "Age is no barrier to devotion," and praising her as a symbol of faith.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the temple administration, responded by locating Navaneethamma and her family. On Monday, they arranged a VIP break darshan for her, allowing a seamless visit to the deity. Temple officials escorted her from the biometric verification centre to the sanctum, providing assistance throughout.
After the darshan, TTD Executive Officer Muddada Ravi Chandra felicitated her at the Ranganayakula Mandapam. Amid Vedic chants, she was honoured with a silk shawl, theertham, and prasadam.
Her grandson, Dikpathi, expressed gratitude to the TTD for transforming his grandmother's lifelong wish into a memorable spiritual experience. He thanked the administration and staff for their warmth and care.
The pilgrimage, captured in viral images, stands as a testament to enduring faith, transcending age and physical limitations.
