Buchi Babu Sana Apologises Over ‘Peddi’ Backlash, Confirms Edits to Janhvi Kapoor’s Scenes

June 6, 2026 user

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Peddi, featuring the powerhouse pairing of Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor, has ignited more than just box-office buzz. Shortly after its release on June 4, viewers took to social media to flag a series of sequences they felt tipped into hypersexualisation and blurred lines of consent. Faced with this fan-driven uproar, director Buchi Babu Sana has now stepped up with an earnest apology and a promise to fine-tune the contested moments.

What Triggered the Controversy?

The discussion started after promotional footage from Peddi began circulating online. Many viewers felt that one of the scenes involving Janhvi Kapoor focused unnecessarily on her physical appearance rather than her character, leading to accusations of objectification.

Social media platforms quickly became divided. While some defended the filmmaker’s creative choices, others argued that mainstream cinema should move beyond outdated portrayals of women and focus on stronger character representation.

The criticism gained momentum as fans, film commentators, and women’s rights advocates joined the conversation, urging the filmmakers to reconsider the scene.

Audience Outcry Triggers Director’s Response

Within days of hitting screens, Peddi came under fire for how it showcased its leading lady. Online chatter zeroed in on shots that lingered excessively on Janhvi Kapoor’s body, detracting from her character’s emotional depth. Alongside the visual critique, debates flared over certain romantic beats that viewers felt romanticised non-consensual gestures, stirring conversations about responsible representation in mainstream Bollywood.

Hypersexualised Framing Under Fire

Clips circulating across X highlighted sweeping pans and close-ups that many labelled as gratuitous. Fans argued these framings reduced Janhvi’s role to superficial glamour, overshadowing her performance and the story’s heart.

Contested Romance Sparks Consent Debate

Peddi’s central love arc was also scrutinised for scenes that seemed to normalise borderline non-consensual intimacy. Social media users called out the filmmakers for missing an opportunity to depict a more respectful, consensual relationship—especially vital in today’s climate of evolving audience sensitivities.

Buchi Babu Sana’s Mea Culpa and Promised Fixes

On June 6, the director took to his X handle to address the backlash. He stressed that disrespecting women was never on his agenda and voiced regret for any discomfort caused. “We fully respect the sentiments raised and sincerely apologise for any misstep,” he shared. Confirming that his team has reviewed the flagged sequences, he vowed to make the necessary edits to ensure Peddi aligns with a more mindful vision.

As a filmmaker, I believe cinema should entertain, inspire, and connect with audiences. It should never make anyone feel uncomfortable or disrespected. We have heard the feedback regarding certain scenes in Peddi and have taken it seriously.

I have always had immense respect for…

— BuchiBabuSana (@BuchiBabuSana) June 6, 2026

Public Reaction to the Apology

The response to Buchi Babu Sana’s apology has been mixed.

Some viewers appreciated the director’s willingness to acknowledge criticism and make corrections. Others argued that such issues should be identified during production rather than after public backlash.

Nevertheless, many observers viewed the apology as a positive step, particularly because it was accompanied by a commitment to make actual changes rather than simply issuing a statement.

Setting a New Precedent in Bollywood

This swift director’s intervention illustrates a shifting power dynamic: audiences now hold sway even post-release. As Peddi gets its course correction, cinephiles will be watching closely—not only for the film’s revised narrative flow but for the wider message it sends about audience engagement and respectful storytelling in Bollywood’s next chapter.

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