In a candid revelation that has set the internet buzzing, ‘Peddi’ director Buchi Babu Sana has disclosed that Janhvi Kapoor’s role in the Ram Charan-starrer was originally meant for her younger sister Khushi Kapoor. The filmmaker explained exactly why he made the awkward switch within the same household.
How Khushi Kapoor lost the role to Janhvi Kapoor
Speaking in an interview with M9 ahead of the film’s June 4 release, Buchi Babu Sana shared that he had initially approached Khushi Kapoor for the role of Achiyamma but changed his mind after meeting her in person. The director revealed, “I initially narrated the film to Khushi Kapoor. But once I saw her in person, I realised that she’s too young for this character. Now, imagine when I have to reject Khushi and give narration to Janhvi in the same home. I felt bad and asked Janhvi if Khushi didn’t take offence.”He went on to describe the uncomfortable but necessary conversation, adding, “I explained why I rejected her sister. I looked at Khushi, told her hi, and said, ‘I don’t want you in the film; I want your sister.’ But such things need to be done for cinema. From the beginning, I just knew this role would suit Janhvi. Even as I narrated it to others, I would imagine her in the role.”
More about ‘Peddi’
‘Peddi’ is a sports action drama set in 1980s rural Andhra Pradesh, exploring the worlds of cricket and traditional wrestling (pehelwani/kushti). Written and directed by Buchi, it marks his second feature film after the acclaimed ‘Uppena’ (2021).The film stars Ram Charan in the titular role alongside Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu, and Divyenndu. The trailer drops on May 18.
Director praises Ram Charan’s dedication to the story
During a recent promotional video shot while driving around Hyderabad, Buchi Babu Sana heaped praise on his lead actor, saying, “You gave me many beautiful memories with this film. Peddi is going to be amazing. We worked on it with all our hearts. The main focus was always the story. Charan sir is a star hero, but he kept all that aside to work on this story.”‘Peddi’ is set to arrive in cinemas on June 4, 2026.
