In a candid revelation that has created a stir online, Peddi director Buchi Babu Sana has revealed that Janhvi Kapoor’s role in Ram Charan’s film was originally meant for her younger sister Khushi Kapoor. The director explained exactly why he made the awkward switch within the same house.
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 initially approached Khushi Kapoor for the role of Achiyamma but changed his mind after meeting her in person. “I had initially narrated the film to Khushi Kapoor. But once I saw her in person, I realized she was too young for this character. Now, imagine when I have to reject Khushi and give the narration to Jhanvi in the same house,” the director revealed.
I felt bad and asked Jhanvi if Khushi wasn’t feeling insulted.”He went on to describe the uncomfortable but necessary conversation, adding: “I explained why I said no to her sister. I looked at Khushi, told her hello, and said, ‘I don’t want you in the movie; I want your sister.” But such things have to be done for the sake of cinema. From the beginning, I knew this role would suit Jhanvi. Even when I narrated it to others, I was imagining her in this role.”
More about “Bidi”
‘Peddi’ is a sports drama set in rural Andhra Pradesh in the 1980s, exploring the worlds of cricket and traditional wrestling (pehlwani/koshti). Written and directed by Bucci, this is his second feature film after the acclaimed “Uppena” (2021).The film stars Ram Charan in the titular role alongside Jhanvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkummar, Gajapati Babu and Divyendu. The trailer will be released on May 18.
The director praises Ram Charan’s dedication to the story
During a recent promotional video shot while driving around Hyderabad, Buchi Babu Sana praised his lead actor, saying, “You have given me many beautiful memories with this film. Peddi is going to be amazing. We have been working on it with all our hearts. The main focus has always been on the story. Charan sir is a star hero, but he kept all that aside to work on this story.”“Peddi” is scheduled to hit theaters on June 4, 2026.
