As Peddi continues to face backlash over its portrayal of the lead actress, Janhvi Kapoor, and certain dialogues, Champion director Pradeep Advaitham has now come out in support of the film. While the filmmaker acknowledged some flaws, he defended the Ram Charan-starrer’s core themes.
Pradeep Advaitham heaps praise on Peddi
Advaitham took to Instagram to share his review, describing Peddi as a story about identity, dignity and belonging. The filmmaker argued that the film`s themes resonate far beyond its rural setting.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Pradeep Advaitham (@pradeep.advaitham)
He wrote, “What makes Peddi particularly relevant today is that beneath its rural setting lies a universal conflict the fight for identity. Peddi`s struggle to be seen, respected, and accepted mirrors the identity struggles we see in society today. In a time when individuals and communities are constantly seeking recognition for who they are, his journey feels very relevant and modern. His fight is not just personal it reflects a larger human need for dignity, belonging, and self-respect.”
Praising Ram Charan for taking on a rooted role, he also credited filmmaker Buchi Babu Sana for backing an unconventional story. Pradeep added that he had tremendous respect for Sana for convincing a star like Ram Charan to star in such a grounded script.
Pradeep Advaitham slams reviewers
Meanwhile, Pradeep also addressed the criticism surrounding the film, particularly the track involving Janhvi Kapoor`s character, admitting that some concerns were valid.
He added, “I agree with some of the criticisms. The heroine`s track could have been better, and certain dialogues are problematic and may not work for everyone. But what made me think that many Telugu reviewers are idiots was the criticism questioning why the villagers continue to live there instead of moving to places like Vizianagaram or Bobbili.”
The filmmaker argued that Peddi itself answers those criticisms, saying the village is not merely a location but a home tied to generations of history, identity and belonging. He further added that the film highlights the discrimination and social realities faced by marginalised communities.
The director urged critics to engage more deeply with the film`s themes rather than relying on quick reactions. He also argued that many reviewers focus on minute-by-minute observations instead of the larger ideas that the filmmaker was trying to communicate.
