Entertainment

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor marked her birthday with a deeply spiritual gesture as she visited the sacred Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in the early hours of Friday. Turning twenty-nine this year, the actress chose to begin her special day with prayers rather than celebrations, climbing nearly 3,550 steps barefoot to reach the hilltop shrine. A video of her pilgrimage has since gone viral on social media, winning admiration from fans who praised the actor for her humility and devotion.

Dressed in a simple salwar suit and wearing no visible makeup, Janhvi was seen walking up the temple steps without any celebrity glamour or special arrangements. The actress quietly blended in with other pilgrims as she made her way toward the shrine. Several visitors at the temple complex appeared surprised to see the star undertaking the physically demanding climb just like any other devotee. According to temple tradition, devotees who choose the pedestrian route must ascend thousands of steps before reaching the sanctum, making the journey both a spiritual and physical test of faith.

The viral video shows Janhvi moving steadily up the long flight of stairs while interacting warmly with devotees along the way. She also paused occasionally to oblige fans who requested selfies, smiling politely despite the demanding climb. The actress’ calm and simple appearance stood in contrast to the usual high-profile birthday celebrations associated with Bollywood stars, and many internet users praised her for choosing devotion over glamour on such an occasion.

Janhvi’s connection with the Tirumala temple is not new. The actress, daughter of legendary actor Sridevi, has often spoken about her spiritual upbringing and her strong bond with several sacred temples in India. Over the years she has frequently visited Tirupati as well as other famous religious sites including the Golden Temple and the Mahakaleshwar Temple. Fans often refer to her as a “sanskaari” or spiritually grounded celebrity because of her consistent participation in religious rituals despite a demanding film schedule.

Janhvi, the Tirumala temple holds particular emotional significance due to her mother’s deep faith in the shrine. She has often mentioned that her visits there are inspired by Sridevi’s devotion and family traditions. The actress has previously climbed the temple steps in unique ways as well; on one occasion she reportedly ascended part of the path on her knees as an act of prayer.

Unlike many Bollywood celebrities who celebrate birthdays with lavish parties attended by industry friends, Janhvi has developed a tradition of spending the day at Tirumala or Tirupati seeking blessings. This year was no different. By beginning her twenty-ninth year with prayer at one of India’s most revered temples, the actress once again captured the admiration of fans who appreciated her quiet faith and simplicity.

The video of her barefoot climb and temple visit continues to circulate widely online, with many viewers calling the moment inspiring and a refreshing reminder of humility in the world of glamour.