Milk turns poison for snakes – Special Story

The controversy surrounding Janhvi Kapoor’s portrayal in Peddi shows no signs of slowing down.

Even after director Buchi Babu Sana publicly apologised and assured that necessary changes would be made, lyricist Anantha Sriram has now raised questions over whether an apology was needed in the first place.

Speaking at the film’s success meet on Sunday, Anantha Sriram strongly defended the director’s creative vision. He stated that the character of Achiyyamma was entirely shaped by the filmmaker’s imagination and that directors should have the freedom to portray characters based on the story and setting.

He also took a critical stance on growing social media influence over cinema, arguing that online opinions are increasingly shaping creative choices. According to him, expressions of attraction are often accepted when presented in refined language, but are labelled inappropriate when expressed through rural or tribal characterizations.

Anantha Sriram further warned that excessive sensitivity and criticism could end up restricting creativity in mainstream commercial cinema. He suggested that Buchi Babu Sana’s apology may have come more out of courtesy and a desire to avoid hurting sentiments than an admission of wrongdoing.

Meanwhile, Peddi continues to face criticism over what many viewers have described as the hyper-sexualised portrayal of Janhvi’s character Achiyyamma. Several romantic scenes in the film also sparked backlash, with critics accusing the makers of presenting problematic behaviour as romance.

Following the backlash, Buchi Babu Sana responded with an apology and assured audiences of suitable edits and changes.

Despite the ongoing debate, Peddi is performing strongly at the box office. The film stars Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor in the lead roles, alongside Boman Irani, Divyenndu, and Jagapathi Babu in key roles.