Ram Charan's latest release 'Peddi' is enjoying a bumper run at the box office. Directed by Buchi Babu Sana, the film stars Janhvi Kapoor in the sport action drama where Ram Charan fights for the identity of his people. The film has become one of the most talked about films of this year for multiple reasons. Let's take a look at when did the film make headlines.
Ram Charan's Massive Transformation
One of the most talked points since the team released the Peddi Pehelwaan teaser was Ram Charan's look. For the role, the actor, known for his full dedication, underwent rigorous training to turn himself into the muscular figure of a pehelwaan. The director of the film, Buchi Babu Sana, revealed that the actor trained for 3-4 months to perform wrestling in the film. He also shared that they roped in a trainer who coached Aamir Khan in the movie 'Dangal'. The makers included wrestlers from Telangana as part of the film and provided training to the artist. During his transformation, the actor also suffered multiple injuries.
Ram Charan's Bodyguard
Speaking of bodybuilding, Ram Charan's bodyguard has been hitting headlines after being seen with the actor during promotional events. His bodyguard Kevin Kunta, who is also an MMA fighter, has been guarding 'Peddi'. According to a report by Republic Media, Kevin Kunta is getting paid between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 4 lakh per day for protecting Ram Charan during public events and travels. Interestingly, after the film's success, Ram Charan's wife Upasana shared a video of their househelp team performing the 'Chikri Chikri' song. The clip also featured Kevin Kunta performing the dance number holding a bat just like Peddi in the film.
'Peddi' Crushing Box Office
The Ram Charan starrer during its special premiere shows minted over Rs 18.50 crore. Later on its official first day, the numbers jumped to Rs 51 crore. On Friday, the film's collections added Rs 26.90 crore and also made Rs 29.10 crore on Saturday alone. On Sunday, the film made Rs 32.15 crore. On a weekday, Monday, it saw a decline, making Rs 12.05 crore, and then Rs 58 lakh on Tuesday, according to Sacnilk. On Tuesday, the makers announced that the film's total box office collection stands over Rs 315 crore worldwide.
Controversy in 'Peddi'
Apart from the film's success, 'Peddi' has also received some heat regarding how the film portrays its female lead, Achiyamma played by Janhvi Kapoor. In certain romantic scenes, Ram Charan's character Peddi is shown kissing Achiyamma without her consent. Social media users described it as problematic because it appeared to present non-consensual behavior as romance. Additionally, the portrayal of Janhvi Kapoor's character also got backlash as many viewers felt that her character was not given enough importance in the story and was instead shown mainly through glamour-focused scenes and camera angles. Netizens and critics criticized the makers for objectifying her character rather than giving it a meaningful role. The issue became so significant that director Buchi Babu Sana publicly apologized and agreed to make changes to the film.
