Earlier this Thursday, actor Anna Rajan took to social media to call out the culture of shooting celebrities from inappropriate angles during their public appearances and posting these videos on social media without their consent. Best known for her role in Lijo Jose Pellissery's Angamali Diaries, Anna spoke about the issue from her experience following her recent visit to Attukal Temple for the Pongala festival.
"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, chanting Her name with faith in my heart. 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," Anna wrote.
Anna Rajan also apologised for the apparent hurt her conduct and appearance might have caused to other devotees. "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 underscored the level of her devotion for the temple deity, Attukal Amma, as well. "Amma knows my heart. She knows the struggle, the heat, the prayers, and the sincerity behind my smile. That truth is enough for me. I will always remain a humble devotee of Attukal Amma, surrendering everything at Her lotus feet," she concluded her thoughts.
Anna has been receiving some support from the entertainment industry for sharing her experience. In fact, she is not the only celebrity from South India to share a similar encounter in the recent past. Kannada actor Sapthami Gowda has also spoken about invasive paparazzi culture.
