What is the Peddi controversy? Audience did not like Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor’s romance

Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor’s blockbuster film ‘Peddi’ is setting new flags of success at the box office these days, but at the same time this film has also come at the center of a big controversy. Released in theaters on June 4, the film was projected as an ‘All-India’ superhit film across the country. As expected, the film received a tremendous response from the audience and created a new record by crossing the Rs 100 crore mark on the very first day. This has become the first solo film in the career of actor Ram Charan which has earned such a huge amount on the opening day.

On one hand, while fans are celebrating this historic earning, on the other hand, a heated debate has erupted on social media and among critics regarding the romance shown in the film and the portrayal of female characters. It is alleged that Janhvi Kapoor’s character has been shown in an excessively sensual and glamorous manner in the film. Because of this, the film’s director Buchi Babu Sana is facing heavy criticism. The situation is such that this controversy is being discussed everywhere except the story of the film which is a sports drama.

beginning of controversy

The spark of this entire protest erupted when soon after the release of the film, some of its special scenes got leaked and went viral on social media. These scenes were related to very intimate romantic and kissing scenes filmed between Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor. Within no time, these videos spread like wildfire on the internet and became the main topic of discussion. A section of the audience believed that these scenes were a demand of the story and were a natural part of the love story of the film. Other sections of the audience found this way of showing romance on screen quite uncomfortable and objectionable.

Gradually this debate was not limited to just one kissing scene, but questions started being raised on the entire character of Janhvi Kapoor in the film. Janhvi has played the character of a girl named ‘Achiamma’ in the film, who is the love interest of lead actor ‘Peddi’. People say that in the songs and teaser/trailer of the film, instead of showing Achiamma’s acting or her importance in the story, an attempt has been made only to cash in on her glamor and being an object.

Serious allegations of objectification

Critics and a large section of the audience have made very serious allegations against the film makers. He says that even in today’s modern era, actresses are being presented only as an ‘object’ in films. The biggest question that critics are asking is whether a talented actress like Janhvi Kapoor was kept in the film only so that she could act only as a ‘romantic element’ or a ‘show-piece’ in this story revolving around Ram Charan. This criticism became more acute because ‘Peddi’ was promoted as an emotional, realistic and grassroots sports drama. The audience expected that every character would have its own depth. But when the film came out, people felt that due to marketing and scenes, the importance of the female lead character was completely diminished.

Social media divided among fans

This controversy has divided cinema lovers into two factions. Ram Charan’s fans say that without watching the entire film, it is wrong to form any opinion on the basis of small clips floating on the internet. The film has a complete story, so the decision should be taken only after watching the entire film. On the other hand, aware viewers believe that this protest is absolutely justified. He says that it is not just a matter of romantic scenes, but the real issue is whether the female character is getting equal respect and space in the story as the hero, or is she just sidelined as a helper in the hero’s journey.

Big decision and apology of director Buchi Babu Sana

After being surrounded from all sides, the film’s director Buchi Babu Sana finally broke his silence by issuing an official statement on social media on June 6. He expressed his views very politely, respecting the sentiments of the audience. He said, ‘I believe that the real purpose of cinema should be to entertain the audience, inspire them and connect with their hearts. Our intention was never to make anyone feel uncomfortable or insulted. None of the characters in the film were written with the intention of demeaning women or treating them as objects. However, if any scene has hurt the audience’s sentiments or been misinterpreted, I understand those concerns and sincerely apologize for it.

Scissors will be used on controversial scenes

Taking his point forward, the director announced to take a big and positive step. He said that keeping in mind the feedback of the audience, the film makers have decided to make changes in the controversial scenes. Those scenes on which objection has been raised will be rectified or removed from the film running in cinema theatres.