Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to Temporarily Suspend Operations for Temple “Arattu” Procession

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to Temporarily Suspend Operations for Temple "Arattu" Procession

VoM News Desk | October 18, 2023 | 11:05 AM IST | Breaking News, Travel | Follow on Google News

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to Temporarily Suspend Operations for Temple “Arattu” Procession

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to Temporarily Suspend Operations for Temple “Arattu” Procession

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is set to temporarily suspend its flight services for a five-hour period on October 23 to accommodate the traditional “Arattu” procession of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple as it passes through the airport’s runway. This centuries-old ritual is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Travancore Royals.

The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Ltd (TIAL) announced that flights would be halted from 4 pm to 9 pm on October 23, allowing for the Alpassi Arattu procession of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple to proceed. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for updated flight schedules during this period.

The airport has a long-standing practice of pausing its operations and rescheduling flights twice a year to facilitate the biannual ceremonial procession of the shrine. This procession, which involves a holy bath of the temple idols, has a history dating back centuries and continues even after the airport’s establishment in 1932.

Historical records indicate that the construction of the airport was carefully planned to ensure that it would be open to the public for 363 days a year and reserved for Lord Padmanabha, the titular deity of the royal family, for two days annually. This tradition showcases the harmonious coexistence of history, culture, and modernity in the region.

VoM News Desk

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