'Peddi' director Buchi Babu Sana responds to backlash on Janhvi Kapoor's objectification in film
Hyderabad, June 6
Responding to the backlash on Janhvi Kapoor's objectification in his rural sports drama 'Peddi', featuring actor Ram Charan in the lead, the film's director Buchi Babu Sana on Saturday tendered an apology and said that after reviewing the feedback, they had decided to make changes to the concerned portions in the film.
The rural sports action drama 'Peddi', featuring Telugu star Ram Charan in the lead, hit screens on June 4 much to the joy of fans. However, certain portions in the film, especially those pertaining to the portrayal of the heroine, came in for much flak from audiences and critics. In particular, the film's romantic track came in for criticism for normalising harrassment and non-consent.
Under these circumstances, the director of the film, Buchi Babu Sana has now issued a clarification.
Taking to his X timeline, he wrote, "As a filmmaker, I believe cinema should entertain, inspire, and connect with audiences. It should never make anyone feel uncomfortable or disrespected. We have heard the feedback regarding certain scenes in Peddi and have taken it seriously."
He went on to say, "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. If any part of the film has been perceived that way, we respect those sentiments, understand the concerns being raised, and sincerely apologize."
Saying that after reviewing the feedback, they had 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," he said and added, "Every woman deserves to be respected, valued, and represented with dignity. We remain committed to telling stories that celebrate strong characters and uphold those values. Thank you to everyone who shared their views honestly and sincerely."
— IANS
Reader Comments
I actually liked the film, but I get why some scenes bothered people. In our Indian context, we need to be more careful about how we show romance on screen. Good move by the director to listen to feedback. But let's not forget this is a mass entertainer, not a documentary.
As someone from Hyderabad who watched the film on day one, I felt uncomfortable during those scenes. It's 2024 yaar - we can't keep normalising harassment in the name of romance. Appreciate the director's mature response instead of getting defensive. This is progress. 🌟
Honestly, people need to chill. It's a commercial film, not a social message movie. But I respect that the director listened to feedback - that shows class. Ram Charan fans might be upset but this is the right thing to do. Cinema should evolve with times.
This is exactly why I stopped watching Telugu commercial films. The "heroine is just eye candy" mentality needs to go. But credit where due - at least Buchi Babu Sana had the guts to apologize and change things. Most directors would have just ignored the criticism. Baby steps. 🎬
As a fan of Ram Charan, I was disappointed to see this controversy. But the director handled it well - no excuses, no blame game, just acknowledged the feedback and said they'll fix it. That's the mark of a good leader. Hope the edited version maintains the film's essence.
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