In moments of crisis, people use faith as an anchor to get through difficulties. A similar experience was faced by the Deputy CM of Andhra Pradesh, Pawan Kalyan and his wife, Anna Konidela. The prominent couple in the South India film industry faced a difficult phase after their 8-year-old son, Mark Shankar, was caught in a major fire mishap at his school in Singapore. Recently, after the little one’s successful escape, Anna has fulfilled a major vow to Lord Venkateshwara to express her gratitude.
Anna Konidela performs head-tonsuring at Tirumala Temple
After Pawan Kalyan shared the news of his son, Mark Shankar’s well-being, his mother, Anna Konidela, vowed to offer her hair at the Tirumala temple as a mark of gratitude over her son’s safe escape. Several pictures from the head-tonsuring ceremony surfaced online, where a woman was seen shaving Anna’s head. Later, Anna offered her prayers to the lord and performed an Aarti with the temple’s priests. For those unaware, Anna Konidela is a Russian Orthodox Christian who signed declaration forms at Gayatri Sadan before participating in the rituals. A statement from Pawan’s political party, Janasena Party, read:
“In keeping with the tradition, Anna offered her hair at Padmavati Kalyana Katta and participated in rituals.”
Pawan Kalyan could not accompany his wife for religious service due to significant governance responsibilities in Andhra Pradesh. Since he was appointed the Deputy CM, the former actor has actively participated in administrative work and public outreach programs. However, some family sources close to the couple revealed that he had encouraged Anna in her decision.
Pawan Kalyan and his wife, Anna Konidela, brought their son, Mark, back to India
Pawan Kalyan was on an official tour in the Alluri Sitarama Raju district of Andhra Pradesh when he received the news about his son’s accident. He initially planned to complete his work but changed his plan after senior party authorities urged him. PM Narendra Modi also expressed concern, and Pawan Kalyan’s elder brother, Chiranjeevi and his wife, Surekha, accompanied him when he went to Singapore a few days ago. Pawan landed back at Hyderabad International Airport late on April 12, 2025, with his wife, Anna and daughter, Polena. Pawan was seen carrying his son, Mark, in his arms. Sharing a note of gratitude on X, he wrote:
“Following the unfortunate fire incident at my son Mark Shankar’s summer camp in Singapore, I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of prayers, concern, and support from all over the world. I wholeheartedly thank leaders from various political parties, Jana Sena Party leaders, Jana Sainiks, well-wishers, members of the film fraternity, friends, and supporters from across the globe for standing by our family during this difficult time. Mark Shankar is now stable and recovering well. Your heartfelt messages have truly given us strength.”
What happened with Pawan Kalyan, son, Mark Shankar?
Pawan Kalyan and Anna Konidela’s son, Mark Shankar went to Singapore to attend a summer camp. But, on April 7, 2025, a fire mishap broke out that left him injured with burns on his hands and legs. At the same time, he had inhaled a lot of smoke. Mark, along with others, was rescued by four Indian migrant workers. They were working on the opposite side of the fire site when the incident occurred. It claimed 22 lives, including 16 children and six adults. However, the four Indian migrants saved 16 minors and six adults despite the absence of any safety harnesses. They were honoured by the Singapore government for their bravery.
What do you think about Anna Konidela’s decision to offer her hair at Tirumala temple?
Next Read: Tanishaa Gets Trolled For Her Dress With Mesh And Fabric Roses, Netizens Say, ‘Ye Sab Uorfi Par..’
