Janhvi Kapoor’s character in 'Peddi' sparks backlash, viewers call it ‘objectifying’

Highlights

• Social media users have criticized the portrayal of Janhvi Kapoor’s Achiyamma in Peddi.
• Much of the backlash centers on claims that the character is overly sexualized and underwritten.
• The debate has overshadowed other aspects of the film following its theatrical release.

Janhvi Kapoor’s role becomes a talking point

While Peddi arrived in cinemas as a major sports drama led by Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor, much of the post-release discussion has focused on the film’s female lead.

Viewers have taken to social media to express disappointment with the way Achiyamma is portrayed, arguing that the character is given limited scope within the narrative. Several posts have claimed that she is frequently presented through the perspective of male characters rather than being allowed to develop as a fully realised figure in her own right.

As a result, criticism surrounding the role has become one of the film’s most discussed topics online.

Audiences call out visual choices

A number of viewers have specifically objected to scenes they believe place unnecessary attention on Achiyamma’s appearance.

Social media users highlighted moments in which camera angles and editing choices appeared to prioritise the character’s physical attributes over her contribution to the story. Critics argued that these sequences distracted from the character and weakened her presence within the film.

Many described the portrayal as outdated, questioning whether the role offered enough substance beyond its romantic elements.

Notably, the criticism has not been directed at Kapoor’s performance itself. Instead, much of the discussion has centred on how the character was written.

Viewers have argued that Achiyamma deserved a stronger storyline and greater influence over the events of the film. Some felt that the character's potential was never fully explored, leaving her with little impact on the wider narrative.

The concerns echoed comments from several reviews, which also questioned the extent to which the film focuses on the character’s appearance.

Controversy adds to conversation around the film

Directed by Buchi Babu Sana, Peddi features an ensemble cast that includes Vijay Sethupathi, Boman Irani, Divyenndu and Jagapathi Babu alongside its lead stars.

Although the film has generated discussion on multiple fronts since its release, the response to Achiyamma’s portrayal has emerged as a defining part of the conversation.

The debate reflects growing audience expectations for female characters to have greater depth, agency and narrative importance, particularly in large-scale commercial productions.