Ram Charan-starrer Peddi’s director Buchi Babu Sana has publicly apologised Friday late night after drawing flak for Janhvi Kapoor’s character in the movie, announcing that modifications will be made to certain scenes currently being screened in cinemas.
The sports drama has been headlined by Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor, which faced intense scrutiny from audiences and critics alike since its release. A major fraction of the criticism was centred on scenes that viewers termed ‘unnecessarily sexualising Kapoor’s character,’ with several sequences and close-up shots becoming a focal point of debate online.
Janhvi Kapoor in a still from 'Peddi'
A particular scene from the film, in which Ram Charan’s character, Peddi, kisses Janhvi Kapoor’s character without her consent, has also kicked up a debate and criticism, prompting calls for the filmmakers to address the concerns of the audience.
Director responds on ‘X’
Taking to ‘X’ on Friday night, director Buchi Babu Sana issued a statement acknowledging the feedback and assuring viewers that corrective steps were underway. His statement read, “As a filmmaker, I believe cinema should entertain, inspire and connect with audiences. It should never make anyone feel uncomfortable or disrespected.” He further emphasised that neither he nor the creative team had intended to demean or objectify any female character in the movie.
He wrote, “We have heard the feedback regarding certain scenes in Peddi and have taken it seriously. I have always had immense respect for women, both on and off screen, and it was never our intention to objectify or disrespect any female character.”
Changes to be made
Sana then acknowledged the evolving expectations of modern audiences, confirming that changes would be introduced to the portions that have drawn criticism. He wrote in the post, “After reviewing the feedback, we have decided to make changes to the concerned portions. Cinema grows through its connection with audiences, and as storytellers, we have a responsibility to be mindful of evolving perspectives and sensitivities.”
Film faces mixed response
Ram Charan's look from Peddi
Peddi is set against the backdrop of a determined villager fighting to secure recognition and identity for his community while enduring significant personal hardships along the way. While the film has received mixed reviews overall, Ram CHaran’s performance has emerged as one of its most widely lauded aspects.
On the work front, Janhvi Kapoor is set to appear alongside Tiger Shroff in Lag Ja Gale, while Ram Charan is expected to reunite with acclaimed filmmaker Sukumar for the highly-anticipated project RC17, which follows the success of Rangasthalam.