TTD chief urges government to declare Tirumala a no-fly zone, emphasizing the need to respect devotees' sentiments

TTD Chairman Calls for No-Fly Zone Over Tirumala to Uphold Spiritual Sanctity

In a heartfelt appeal to preserve the divine tranquility of Tirumala, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) Chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy has urged the central government to declare the skies above the sacred hill shrine a permanent no-fly zone. This move comes as a response to growing concerns that aircraft noise is disrupting the spiritual ambiance cherished by millions of devotees who visit the abode of Lord Venkateswara.  

The proposal highlights the delicate balance between modern convenience and ancient tradition. Reddy emphasized that the constant buzz of helicopters and drones, particularly during VIP visits, shatters the meditative peace essential to the Tirumala experience. "This isn't just about noise pollution," he explained. "It's about respecting the profound connection between devotees and the divine – a connection that requires undisturbed focus and devotion."  

Recent incidents have fueled the demand for stricter airspace regulations. Earlier this year, devotees expressed dismay when a low-flying helicopter interrupted the sacred Suprabhatham morning ritual. Temple priests have also reported that vibrations from aircraft interfere with delicate ceremonies. The situation reached a tipping point when unauthorized drone footage of temple rituals circulated on social media, raising concerns about privacy and sanctity.  

While acknowledging the necessity of air travel for emergencies, the TTD chairman proposed limiting flights to genuine medical evacuations. The temple trust has already taken steps to reduce VIP privileges, ensuring more equitable access to darshan for all pilgrims. "Every devotee, regardless of status, should have the same opportunity to experience Tirumala's spiritual power without artificial disturbances," Reddy asserted.  

The appeal has resonated deeply with the local community. Longtime residents like 65-year-old Lakshmi, who runs a small shop near the temple, shared, "The sound of bells and chants is part of our soul here. These machines in the sky feel like they're drowning out our prayers." However, some aviation experts caution that implementing such restrictions near the busy Tirupati airport may require careful navigation of logistical challenges.  

As the Andhra Pradesh government prepares to formally submit the request to central authorities, all eyes are on whether Tirumala will join other global spiritual landmarks like Mecca that have successfully implemented similar protections. For the millions who trek the holy hills each year, this isn't just about quiet skies – it's about preserving the sacred silence where faith finds its purest expression.