Peddi's OTT Debut: Mixed Reactions and Controversies Surrounding the Film

Peddi, the rural sports drama featuring Ram Charan, has made its much-anticipated OTT debut on Netflix, receiving a mix of praise and criticism from viewers. While many fans celebrated the film's emotional storytelling and performances, others raised concerns about its writing and the portrayal of Janhvi Kapoor's character. Following the release, changes made to certain scenes sparked debate, leading to discussions about the film's treatment of women. Director Buchi Babu Sana addressed the backlash, emphasizing the importance of respectful representation. Discover the varied reactions and controversies surrounding this significant release in South Indian cinema.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 10, 2026, 14:39 IST

Peddi Now Streaming on Netflix

After a successful run in theaters, the much-anticipated film Peddi has made its debut on OTT platforms. Starring Ram Charan, this rural sports drama is now accessible on Netflix, enabling audiences globally to enjoy the film from the comfort of their homes. Directed by Buchi Babu Sana, Peddi has been well-received for its heartfelt narrative, thrilling sports scenes, and strong performances. Before its digital release, the film was celebrated as one of the biggest hits in South Indian cinema this year. The OTT launch took place on July 9, with the film available in multiple languages including Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam. Fans who missed its theatrical release are now flocking to Netflix to watch and share their thoughts online.

Viewer Reactions to Peddi's OTT Release

Mixed Reviews Following Release

Since its arrival on OTT, Peddi has garnered a variety of responses from viewers. While many fans have lauded Ram Charan’s performance, emotional depth, and the film's rural backdrop, others have criticized its writing and commercial approach. One viewer described Peddi as a compelling rural sports drama that successfully intertwines emotion, action, and a vibrant village setting. They praised Ram Charan’s transformation and screen presence, along with Buchi Babu Sana’s direction, Rathnavelu’s cinematography, and AR Rahman’s musical score. However, they also noted that the film adhered to a conventional sports drama formula, leading to predictability in the latter half.

Controversial Changes and Backlash

Changes Spark Debate

One user on social media criticized the screenplay, expressing disappointment with Janhvi Kapoor’s character and the overall execution, suggesting that only certain elements, like the Appala Suri character and the Gusthi episode, were effective. Another viewer raised concerns about the portrayal of Janhvi Kapoor’s character, arguing that the film depicted certain actions by the hero as romantic while condemning similar actions by the antagonist.

Additionally, some viewers were taken aback by alterations made to Janhvi Kapoor’s scenes in the Netflix version, questioning whether it was a censored edition of the film. Following the theatrical release, several fans reacted to the modifications made to scenes involving her character, with some expressing gratitude for the edits while others questioned the inclusion of such scenes in the original cut.

Director's Apology Amid Criticism

Backlash Over Character Presentation

Prior to its OTT release, Janhvi Kapoor’s role in Peddi faced scrutiny for how her character Achiyyamma was portrayed. Critics and viewers accused the filmmakers of using objectifying camera angles, which detracted from the character's essence. A romantic scene where Ram Charan’s character kisses Janhvi Kapoor’s character without consent during a power outage also sparked significant debate, with many questioning its appropriateness. In response to the backlash, director Buchi Babu Sana issued an apology on social media, acknowledging that some visuals were interpreted in ways that were not intended and emphasized that the film should not make women feel uncomfortable or disrespected.