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A controversy has shaken the Bhojpuri industry after actress and singer Anjali Raghav announced her exit, citing an incident involving singer and actor Pawan Singh. The two were recently seen in Lucknow promoting their song Saiya Seva Kare, when a video surfaced online showing Pawan placing his hand on Anjali’s waist without her consent. The clip quickly drew criticism, and Anjali has now spoken out about her distress.
Anjali Raghav Opens Up About the Lucknow Event
Breaking her silence through Instagram videos, Anjali explained how the incident left her disturbed. She said, “For the last two days, I have been very stressed. People are asking why I stayed quiet, why I didn’t react or slap him. Some even claim I was laughing and enjoying it. Do you really think anyone would enjoy being touched like that in public?” (In Hindi)
Anjali clarified that before agreeing to the project, she had confirmed with Pawan that there would be no objectionable lyrics, costumes, or double-meaning content. She said she had been comfortable during the shoot, which is why she agreed to attend the Lucknow event.
'I Felt Angry and Helpless...'
Recalling what happened on stage, Anjali said Pawan told her something was stuck on her waist. Since her saree was new, she assumed it could be the blouse tag and ignored his words. But when he repeated the same, she later checked with her team, only to find out nothing was there.
“That’s when I felt really bad, angry, and even like crying. But I didn’t know what to do because the crowd was his fanbase. People were calling him God and even falling at his feet,” she revealed. (In Hindi)
Silence from Pawan Singh’s Team
Anjali further mentioned that she tried contacting Pawan’s team once the matter went viral, but no one responded. She also wanted to answer trolls accusing her of overreacting, but was advised against it, as she was told Pawan’s PR team was very strong and it could backfire.
'I won’t work in the Bhojpuri industry again'
Strongly condemning the act, Anjali said, “I do not support touching any girl without her permission. It is absolutely wrong. If this had happened in Haryana, the public would have given the answer themselves. But since I was in Lucknow, surrounded by his fans, I stayed silent.” (In Hindi)
She then confirmed her decision, “I will not work in the Bhojpuri industry anymore. As an artist, I like to try new things, but I am happy with my family and in Haryana.” (In Hindi)
The Viral Video That Sparked Criticism
The viral clip shows Anjali in a golden saree addressing the crowd while Pawan, dressed in white, stands beside her. He is seen placing his hand on her waist multiple times, even after she appears visibly uncomfortable. At one point, he asks her to move her hand but she refuses. Eventually, he removes his own hand after saying “Okay".
पवन सिंह ये क्या कर रहे हैं? आप ही लोग कुछ कहिए।#PawanSingh pic.twitter.com/RDJp4hUjzP
— Rohit Raj (@Rohitraj8480Raj) August 28, 2025
The video has been widely shared across social media platforms, with Reddit users and others condemning Pawan for his behaviour.
