How did Pawan Kalyan meet his Russian model wife, Anna? A look at their 13-year relationship

Actor-politician and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and his wife Anna Konidela have announced their decision to end their 13-year marriage. The couple made the announcement through a joint statement issued late on Monday, November 9, describing their decision to part ways as one reached through mutual understanding and respect. They also assured well-wishers that they would remain on cordial terms and continue to prioritise the well-being of their children. 

The news has brought renewed attention to the couple's relationship, which began more than a decade ago during the making of a Telugu film. Pawan Kalyan and Anna, a Russian former model and actress, first met on the sets of ‘Teen Maar’ in 2011. Their association during the film's production eventually developed into a relationship, and the two got married in September 2013.

Pawan Kalyan and Anna Konidela's first meeting on ‘Teen Maar’

Pawan Kalyan and Anna's first encounter reportedly took place in 2011 while they were working on the sets of the Telugu romantic comedy ‘Teen Maar’. Directed by Jayanth C Paranjee, the film featured Pawan Kalyan in the lead role, while Anna, who was then known as Anna Lezhneva, appeared in a supporting role.

Their professional association during the film's production gradually developed into a personal relationship. After dating for a period, the two tied the knot in September 2013 in Hyderabad.

Born in Russia, Anna had worked as a model and actress before becoming associated with the Telugu film industry. However, following her marriage to Pawan Kalyan, she largely maintained a low public profile. Unlike her actor-politician husband, who has remained in the public eye through his cinema and political commitments, Anna has made only occasional appearances at public events alongside him.

Anna Konidela's social media debut and name change

Anna attracted attention from fans earlier this year when she made her Instagram debut. Her account featured photographs of herself with Pawan Kalyan, offering followers a rare glimpse into their personal life.

Her Instagram bio, which reads 'Russian heart, Indian soul', reflects her Russian background and connection with India. In July 2026, she also expressed her preference to be addressed as Anna Konidela rather than Anna Lezhneva. She explained that she had adopted her husband's surname following their marriage.

Despite the public interest surrounding her relationship with the actor, Anna has generally chosen to stay away from the spotlight.

What did Pawan Kalyan and Anna say in their separation announcement?

The couple confirmed their decision through a joint statement circulated by Pawan Kalyan's political party, Jana Sena. They described the separation as a mutual decision and requested privacy during the transition.

“After sharing a significant part of our lives, we have decided to part ways with mutual understanding and respect. Though our marriage has come to an end, we remain good friends and devoted parents to our wonderful children. Their happiness and well-being will always remain our shared priority. During this personal transition, we seek your understanding, kindness, and respect for our privacy. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has stood by us throughout this journey,” the joint statement issued by Pawan Kalyan and Anna Konidela read.

The couple have two children together, a daughter and a son. Their statement indicated that their responsibilities as parents would remain a shared priority despite the end of their marriage.

Pawan Kalyan's three marriages: A look at his personal life

Anna was Pawan Kalyan's third wife. Before marrying her, the actor had been married twice.

His first marriage was to Nandini in September 1997. The couple reportedly separated in 1999, although their divorce was legally finalised only in 2008.

In 2009, Pawan Kalyan married actor Renu Desai, with whom he has two children, a son and a daughter. Their marriage also ended, with the couple parting ways in 2012.

The actor subsequently married Anna in September 2013. They welcomed two children during their marriage before announcing their separation in November 2026.

Pawan Kalyan's political journey

Beyond his career in Telugu cinema, Pawan Kalyan has established himself as a prominent political figure in Andhra Pradesh. He founded the Jana Sena Party in March 2014 and has since been actively involved in the state's political affairs.

Jana Sena contested the 2024 Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections as part of an alliance with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The alliance registered a decisive victory, paving the way for Pawan Kalyan to take up a key role in the state government.

He was sworn in as Andhra Pradesh's Deputy Chief Minister on June 14, 2024. He continues to lead Jana Sena while serving in the state Cabinet.