Janhvi Kapoor's Role in 'Pedi' Sparks Debate: Are Actresses to Blame?

The release of 'Pedi' has sparked significant debate over Janhvi Kapoor's portrayal, with actress Ashika Ranganath defending her and shifting the focus to the filmmaking system. Ranganath argues that actresses often lack control over their roles and emphasizes the need to hold writers and directors accountable for the narratives they create. This discussion has reignited conversations about the representation of women in cinema, with support from fellow actress Dimple Hayathi. As the director of 'Pedi' acknowledges the criticism, the dialogue continues to evolve, highlighting systemic issues within the film industry.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 7, 2026, 15:28 IST

Controversy Surrounding 'Pedi' and Women's Representation

The ongoing debate about Janhvi Kapoor's character in the film "Pedi" has ignited discussions on social media regarding the portrayal of women in cinema. Ashika Ranganath, a prominent actress in Telugu and Kannada films, has come forward to defend Kapoor, shifting the conversation from the actress herself to the broader filmmaking landscape. Since the release of "Pedi," many viewers have voiced their concerns about the depiction of Kapoor's character, Achi Amma, particularly in relation to the film's romantic elements and certain camera angles that have raised questions about objectification and the representation of female characters in mainstream films.

As the discourse grew, Ranganath utilized social media to encourage audiences to refrain from directing their frustrations at actresses, who often have little say in how their roles are crafted. She stressed that the focus should be on the filmmaking system and the creators who endorse these narratives, stating, "Don't blame the actress, blame the system and the makers who still think this is what sells." Ranganath pointed out the realities faced by actors, who frequently navigate the limited opportunities available to them while aspiring to be part of significant projects that resonate with larger audiences.

In response to the criticism regarding female roles in commercial cinema, Ranganath asserted that if female characters appear underdeveloped, the fault lies more with the writing and directorial choices rather than the actresses portraying them. Her remarks have struck a chord with many online, reigniting a broader conversation about whether actresses should bear the brunt of criticism for problematic portrayals or if the onus falls on the writers, directors, and producers who craft these stories. Another actress from the Telugu film industry, Dimple Hayathi, also voiced her support for Kapoor, highlighting the necessity of discussing how female roles are scripted and the instinctive tendency to blame actresses for the parts they are given.

While opinions on "Pedi" remain polarized, both Ranganath and Hayathi have provided a new lens through which to view the filmmaking process as a whole. The director of "Pedi," Buchi Babu Sana, has acknowledged the backlash and promised that adjustments will be made. As the conversation evolves, the insights from these actresses have undoubtedly enriched the ongoing dialogue about the representation of women in film and the systemic challenges that shape it.