Janhvi Kapoor's role in the Ram Charan-starrer 'Peddi' has sparked widespread debate. Now, Telugu actress Dimple Hayathi has stepped forward to defend her colleague, attributing the criticism not to Kapoor but to the filmmakers and the industry system that shapes how women are portrayed on screen.
Dimple Hayathi Supports Janhvi Kapoor
Amid the ongoing backlash over 'Peddi', Dimple Hayathi voiced her support for Janhvi Kapoor, whose character drew criticism from some audiences for alleged objectification through camera angles, dialogues, and romantic scenes with Ram Charan. On Sunday, Hayathi took to X to address the issue directly.
She wrote, "I'm so glad that today, we are all speaking about how actresses' roles are being written and the instinctive response to blame the actress for doing what she was offered. Don't blame the actress; blame the system and makers who really think that's what sells. We actors work within the opportunities we get, trying to make it big and hoping to work in bigger films and reach wider audiences."
Hayathi further highlighted how actresses are often judged by the characters they play rather than their actual abilities. She added, "Unfortunately, we are stereotyped by our image and by how things unfold with the characters we play, without getting the opportunity to showcase our full potential as performers. Whereas when hero-centred stories take over, they have the liberty to project. What we see is what we believe, unfortunately. Nobody knows what goes into filmmaking; it is not under one person's control. But we can all unanimously agree that we deserve better experiences and better filmmaking."
Director Buchi Babu Sana Apologises and Promises Changes
On Saturday, 'Peddi' director Buchi Babu Sana responded to the criticism on X. 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. If any part of the film has been perceived that way, we respect those sentiments, understand the concerns being raised, and sincerely apologise."
Sana confirmed that the team reviewed the objectionable portions and will make necessary edits. He added, "Cinema grows through its connection with audiences, and as storytellers, we have a responsibility to be mindful of evolving perspectives and sensitivities. Every woman deserves to be respected, valued and represented with dignity."
More About 'Peddi'
Janhvi Kapoor has not yet publicly commented on the controversy. Released on June 4, 'Peddi' has crossed Rs 200 crore at the global box office.
