Tirupathi: 116-Year-Old Devotee Who Trekked To Tirumala Gets VIP Darshan
Chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu described her journey as inspiring: Reports
NELLORE: An inspiring pilgrimage by 116-year-old devotee Navaneethamma from Chennai culminated in a special VIP break darshan of Lord Venkateswara on Monday after her trek to Tirumala through the Alipiri footpath won widespread admiration on social media.
Navaneethamma fulfilled her long-cherished wish of climbing the Alipiri footpath to offer prayers at the hill shrine. A video of her journey went viral, drawing praise for her unwavering devotion despite her advanced age.
Chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu described her journey as inspiring, saying age was no barrier to pure devotion and that her determination reflected the deep faith devotees have in Lord Venkateswara.
Following the viral video, TTD chairman B.R. Naidu appealed through X for information about the devotee. TTD vigilance officials traced Navaneethamma to the Jeevakona area of Tirupati, where she was staying with relatives.
On the chairman's directions, TTD arranged VIP break darshan for Navaneethamma and her family. Officials received her at the biometric centre and extended assistance throughout the darshan.
After the darshan, Vedic pandits offered Veda Ashirvachanam at Ranganayakula Mandapam. TTD executive officer Muddada Ravichandra honoured her with a silk vastram and presented Srivari Theertha Prasadams.
Her grandson Dikpathi thanked TTD for making the pilgrimage a memorable experience for the family.