Nithya Menen reacts to Janhvi Kapoor's objectification row in Peddi: 'You can assert yourself'

Nithya Menen and Janhvi Kapoor. Pics via Instagram

Ram Charan's Peddi has stirred up a controversy surrounding the portrayal of the lead actress, Janhvi Kapoor, in films. The film has been facing massive backlash for allegedly hypersexualising her character. Amid the backlash, actor Nithya Menen has spoken up on the issue, arguing that objectification of women is not unique to South Indian cinema but instead reflects a wider trend across the film industry.

Nithya Menen opens up about the objectification of women in cinema

During an interview with Variety India, Nithya stated that the objectification of women in films is ‘not limited to South cinema' but is a ‘trend' across the entertainment industry. She further added that the root of the issue lies in the "hyper-commercialisation" of cinema.

The actress added, "Whatever works commercially and titillates the audience is often indulged in for mass success. Is it too much? Absolutely. I wonder if actors should actually have better boundaries and the person who's performing the scene should be able to put their foot down and say they are not okay with being objectified."

The actor also noted that actors are not necessarily powerless in such situations, adding, "If you have been doing this kind of commercial cinema and suddenly you are not okay with it, you may not be taken seriously. I also don't believe that you end up helpless in a situation. You can assert yourself. It depends on what that person's priority is. Are there films that I don't get to do or genres that I don't get to do because I don't do certain kinds of stuff? Yes. But I am okay with it because I choose that over fame. If you only want to be a top star and are willing to do anything to get there, then that is a call you have taken."

Peddi director reacts to backlash over Janhvi Kapoor's role

Following the massive backlash, Peddi director Buchi Babu Sana reacted, saying that he has always held deep respect for women, both in real life and in his storytelling. He further stressed that there was no intention to objectify or demean any female character.

The filmmaker also acknowledged the concerns and said the team respects those sentiments. He further offered an apology to those who felt offended, adding that after reviewing the feedback, the makers had decided to modify the scenes that drew criticism.