Flight operations at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport will come to a temporary halt on April 21 to facilitate the ‘Painkuni Arattu’ procession of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. This annual procession, which holds great religious significance, will traverse the airport’s runway, leading to the suspension of flight services for five hours.
: According to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport authorities, the Painkuni Arattu procession will occur from 4 pm to 9 pm on April 21. In preparation for this event, flight services will be suspended during this period to ensure the smooth progression of the religious procession.
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, in a statement on social media platform X, informed passengers about the temporary suspension of flight services. They emphasized the importance of this pause in operations to accommodate the sacred procession and assured travelers that flight schedules have been adjusted accordingly.
The tradition of halting flight operations for the Painkuni Arattu procession has been observed for decades at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. This practice originated during the construction of the airport, following a decree by the then-Travancore king Sree Chithira Thirunal. Despite changes in management, the ritual has continued, showcasing a blend of tradition and modernity.
The Painkuni Arattu procession is a significant cultural and religious event for the devotees of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. It symbolizes devotion and reverence, drawing participants and spectators from various parts of Kerala.
Despite the temporary halt in operations, Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has witnessed a notable increase in passenger numbers and air traffic movements for the financial year 2023-24. The airport served 4.4 million passengers during this period, marking a substantial rise compared to previous years.
The temporary suspension of flight operations at Thiruvananthapuram Airport on April 21 for the Painkuni Arattu procession reflects the harmonious coexistence of religious traditions and modern air travel infrastructure. This event not only underscores the cultural richness of Kerala but also highlights the airport’s commitment to accommodating diverse community practices while ensuring efficient travel services.
Sources By Agencies
