Despite her advanced age, Navaneethamma conquered the grueling 9-km Alipiri mountain trek on foot, catching the attention of the Chief Minister and TTD administration.
Updated: July 6, 2026
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TIRUMALA — In a heartwarming intersection of deep faith and digital viral reach, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) organized a special VIP Break Darshan on Monday for a 116-year-old devotee. The decision came shortly after mobile footage of her determinedly trekking up the steep mountain footpath took social media platforms by storm.
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The centenarian pilgrim, identified as Navaneethamma, undertook the rigorous foot journey to the hill shrine accompanied and supported by her family members.
Tracking a Legend: The Pilgrimage by the Numbers
The journey Navaneethamma completed is a physical challenge even for young fitness enthusiasts. The Alipiri footpath cuts directly through the rugged terrains of the Seshachalam hills:
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Total Walking Distance: 9 Kilometers
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Total Vertical Stair Steps: Nearly 3,550 steps
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Destination Elevation: Tirumala Hill Temple (Lord Venkateswara)
Her iron-willed stamina and profound spiritual focus captured the hearts of millions online, triggering a cascade of appreciation from high-level state administration.
High-Profile Recognition & State Response
Moved by her absolute devotion, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu publicly lauded her spirit on social media, emphasizing that age becomes completely irrelevant when driven by true faith. He described her mountain climb as an inspiration to the public and praised her family for honoring and supporting her lifelong dream.
Following the immense online traction, TTD Chairman BR Naidu stepped in, issuing swift instructions to temple vigilance teams to trace the elderly woman and ensure her family was brought safely to the inner sanctum.
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The VIP Darshan Experience
Once the vigilance officers successfully located Navaneethamma, administrative staff from the Chairman’s office took charge of her visit.
“Age is just a number when it comes to true devotion. Her journey is incredibly inspiring.” — N Chandrababu Naidu, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh
The prompt and empathetic gesture by the TTD administration has earned widespread praise from the global community of devotees, who highlighted the management’s sensitivity in honoring the elderly woman’s exceptional milestone.
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