Controversy Surrounds Bigg Boss Telugu Star Thanuja Puttaswamy at Tirumala
Thanuja Puttaswamy Faces Backlash Over Birthday Celebration
Thanuja Puttaswamy, known for her appearance on Bigg Boss Telugu 9, is currently under scrutiny due to a birthday celebration that took place at Tirumala. The Vigilance wing of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is contemplating legal measures against Thanuja, along with MLC Duvvada Srinivas and content creator Divvela Madhuri, after they hosted a “cake smash” event at the Sri Padmavathi Guest House. While gifting items like clothes is permissible, officials stated that bringing a cake contravenes temple regulations. Videos from the event have circulated on social media, leading to public outcry. TTD is now considering limiting their future access to the temple to uphold its sanctity.
Details of the Incident
Why Is TTD Taking Legal Action Against Bigg Boss Telugu Fame Thanuja Puttaswamy?
The incident gained attention when Thanuja celebrated her birthday at the Sri Padmavathi Guest House in Tirumala, accompanied by MLC Duvvada Srinivas and Divvela Madhuri. TTD officials revealed that the group had been assigned four suites under a discretionary quota. However, they allegedly brought a 2.5 kg cake onto the premises without obtaining the necessary permissions, breaching the temple's strict regulations against cakes.
While cake-smashing is often viewed as a lighthearted trend on social media, officials emphasized that the sacred environment of Tirumala necessitates a level of decorum. The dissemination of videos and images from the celebration on Instagram has led to significant backlash. An official remarked, “Tirumala is a holy site where devotees wait for hours for darshan. Utilizing privileges for such trivial activities reflects a lack of basic respect.” TTD is reportedly considering revoking the trio's future darshan privileges under the discretionary quota.
Thanuja Puttaswamy's Journey
Thanuja Puttaswamy: From Bigg Boss Fame to Controversy
Thanuja Puttaswamy gained fame as a contestant on Bigg Boss Telugu Season 9, which aired from August to December 2025, concluding on December 21. The season showcased intense rivalries, emotional moments, and challenging tasks. Thanuja finished as the first runner-up, with Kalyan Padala taking home the title. During the grand finale, contestant Pavan won Rs. 15 lakh, while Rs. 35 lakh remained for the finalists.
A suitcase containing Rs. 20 lakh was offered to either finalist, but Thanuja declined it, expressing concern for her fans' feelings. In a Family Week episode, Thanuja was joined by her close friend and co-star Pawan Sai, along with actress Haritha. Overcome with emotion, she was seen crying and later clarified that Pawan Sai is a significant figure in her life, providing guidance on personal and professional issues, but they are not in a romantic relationship.