As the backlash over Janhvi Kapoor’s portrayal in Peddi refuses to die down, one of the film’s own cast members has stepped forward to defend her. Veteran actor Jagapathi Babu, who plays Appalasuri in the film has asked audiences to hold the director responsible and leave the actor out of it.

Jagapathi Babu backs Janhvi Kapoor over Peddi controversy; says, "Don't target her personally"

Jagapathi Babu backs Janhvi Kapoor over Peddi controversy; says, “Don’t target her personally”

Jagapathi Babu’s case for Janhvi

Speaking to Telugu360 Digital, the 64-year-old actor argued that actors seldom have final say over creative decisions once they commit to a director’s vision.

He said, “It’s unfair to go after that girl. We don’t know what her personal views were or whether she agreed with every creative decision. It’s not as if she pushed for it herself. She did what the director asked her to do. When an actor signs on and trusts a director’s vision, they follow that vision.”

He was unambiguous about where he stood: “Don’t target her personally. Don’t bother her mentally by trolling her. Sometimes it misfires. I support Janhvi Kapoor in this matter.”

He also made a broader point about how criticism should be directed. “If you like or dislike the film, comment on the film. But don’t single out an artist, troll them, or cause them mental distress,” he added.

Peddi stars Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor in the lead roles, with Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu, Divyenndu, and Boman Irani in key supporting parts.

Also Read: Peddi row intensifies as Jaya Bachchan, Kareena Kapoor slam female objectification