Mon Jan 20 22:04:25 IST 2025: ## 80-Year-Old Animal Rights Activist Ends Annual Pilgrimage Trek

**TIRUPATI, Andhra Pradesh (The Hindu) –** S. Chinny Krishna, 80, Emeritus Chairman of Blue Cross of India, has concluded his annual pilgrimage trek from Chennai to Tirumala after 35 years. Known for his advocacy for animal rights and pioneering the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme, Mr. Krishna undertook the 150 km journey each year as a thanksgiving to Lord Venkateswara for his good health.

Mr. Krishna, who arrived in Tirupati on Monday, stated that he decided to end the treks to maintain his health and well-being, rather than stop due to physical limitations. He explained his annual visits were not vows made in exchange for favors, but rather expressions of gratitude.

His journey, typically taking several days, was often influenced by factors such as companionship, weather, and the availability of shade. He expressed concern over the lack of toilets along a 20 km stretch of the route, highlighting the inconvenience faced by many pilgrims. He began the tradition in 1987, missing only three years due to his father’s death, the COVID-19 pandemic, and a personal reason.

Beyond his activism, Mr. Krishna is an industrialist whose firm created India’s first Formula Indian Car. He also comes from a family with a rich aviation history: his father was India’s first commercial pilot, and his mother was independent India’s first woman pilot.

While ending his annual trek, Mr. Krishna plans to continue visiting Tirumala yearly, though by road.

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