Airport Pauses for Temple Procession

In Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala state in southern India, an unusual event takes place twice a year. The international airport temporarily halts its operations to allow a Hindu temple procession to cross its runway.

This unique tradition is part of the Painkuni and Alpashi festivals held by the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple. During the procession, devotees pull ornate wooden chariots carrying temple idols along a 2-kilometer stretch of the airport's runway. Even elephants, which are common in Hindu religious events, participate in this procession.

The airport, which usually handles 90 flights daily, closes for several hours to accommodate this centuries-old custom. The event is carefully planned and monitored, with only selected participants allowed on the runway. This tradition has continued since the airport's construction in 1932, showcasing a remarkable blend of modern aviation and ancient religious practices.