ANDHRA PRADESH: Vijayashanthi Slams Trolls Targeting Anna Lezhneva’s Tirumala Tonsure
Gratitude After Son’s Recovery
Anna Lezhneva, wife of Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, visited the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala on April 13, 2025, to express gratitude for her son Mark Shankar’s survival in a Singapore school fire. She performed a head tonsuring ritual, a traditional act of devotion, and donated ₹17 lakh to the temple’s Nithya Annadanam scheme in her son’s name.
Viral Images Spark Controversy
Photographs and videos of Anna Lezhneva with a tonsured head went viral on social media, drawing admiration from many. However, some individuals criticized her act, arguing that women tonsuring their heads at Hindu pilgrimage sites violates Sanatan Dharma traditions.
Vijayashanthi Defends Anna
Veteran actress Vijayashanthi condemned the online trolling, praising Anna’s faith in Hindu traditions despite her foreign origin and Christian background. She called the criticism unfair, emphasizing Anna’s devotion to Lord Venkateswara for her son’s safety.
Anna’s Temple Service
Following the tonsure at Padmavati Kalyana Katta, Anna served annaprasadam to devotees and shared the meal with them. She signed a declaration affirming her faith in Lord Venkateswara, adhering to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) protocols for non-Hindu devotees.
Arrest in Related Case
In a separate development, Prathipadu police arrested Pottapasha Raghu, alias Pushparaj, from Kurnool district for posting indecent content online targeting Pawan Kalyan’s son. Superintendent of Police Satish confirmed Raghu’s history of posting obscene material against women.
Public Support for Anna
Fans and supporters lauded Anna’s spiritual gesture, with social media posts expressing respect for her adherence to Indian traditions. Many condemned the trolling, highlighting her act as a sincere expression of gratitude.
Pawan Kalyan’s Response
Pawan Kalyan, who rushed to Singapore to bring his injured son home, expressed relief at Mark’s recovery. The family’s visit to Tirumala reflects their belief in divine intervention during the crisis.