‘Unwanted videos were captured and shared’: Anna Rajan breaks silence after Attukal Pongala clips spark outrage

Actor Anna Rajan, popularly known for her breakout role in the Malayalam film ‘Angamaly Diaries’ (2017), has issued an emotional apology after certain videos of her performing Pongala at the Attukal Temple went viral on social media.

The actress said she was deeply saddened that some clips recorded during the sacred ritual were circulated in a way that shifted attention away from the spiritual atmosphere of the day.

Her response came through a heartfelt post on social media where she expressed regret if anything about the visuals unintentionally hurt devotees. Anna said the Pongala offering was a deeply personal and spiritual moment for her.

“This was my very first time offering Pongala at Attukal Amma’s holy feet. I came only with pure devotion, standing in the extreme heat, cooking with firewood and chanting Her name with faith in my heart,” she wrote.

However, according to the actor, certain videos and clips taken during the ritual were later shared online in ways that she felt misrepresented the moment.

“In between this sacred moment, some unwanted videos and clips were captured and shared. I trusted and respected everyone around me, including the media. It truly hurt me to see certain moments highlighted in a way that took away from the devotion of that day,” she said.

The actress added that she never intended to offend anyone and apologised if anything about her appearance or expressions hurt religious sentiments.

“If my saree, my expressions, or anything about me unintentionally hurt the sentiments of any devotee, I sincerely seek forgiveness. That was never my intention,” she said.

Anna further wrote that the intense heat, the crowd, and the spiritual atmosphere made the experience deeply meaningful for her, and that her prayers were offered with complete sincerity.

“Amma knows my heart. She knows the struggle, the heat, the prayers, and the sincerity behind my smile. That truth is enough for me,” she said.

The viral clips had sparked chatter on social media, with some users questioning the way moments from the ritual were filmed and circulated online. Others came out in support of the actress, saying the focus should remain on the devotion associated with the Attukal Pongala festival.

Ending her message on a devotional note, Anna said she will continue to remain a humble devotee. “I will always remain a humble devotee of Attukal Amma, surrendering everything at Her lotus feet.”