Rashmika Mandanna Says THIS on Janhvi Kapoor’s ‘Peddi’ Controversy

In a significant development for South Indian cinema, actress Rashmika Mandanna has openly addressed the recent Peddi controversy involving Janhvi Kapoor, asserting her personal stance against excessive skin show. Mandanna's comments came during her appearance with husband Vijay Deverakonda on Koffee With Karan Season 9, in an episode which aired on October 21, 2026, on JioHotstar. Vijay Deverakonda Trolled After Revealing Rashmika Mandanna Asked Him To Marry Her for a Year on ‘Koffee With Karan 9’.

The 'Peddi' film, starring Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor, directed by Buchi Babu Sana, has faced widespread criticism for allegedly objectifying its female lead and incorporating questionable camera angles, including a scene depicting a kiss without explicit consent. The film was released theatrically on June 4, 2026. The controversy has sparked a nationwide debate on the portrayal of women in commercial cinema, with director Buchi Babu Sana reportedly issuing an apology and removing the controversial portions.

Rashmika Mandanna Addresses Janhvi Kapoor's 'Peddi' Controversy

During her engaging conversation with host Karan Johar, Rashmika Mandanna directly confronted the sensitive topic of on-screen representation, particularly in the context of the 'Peddi' row. Johar prompted Mandanna by noting the absence of similar controversies surrounding her own portrayals and asked if she consciously sets boundaries.

Responding forthrightly, Mandanna stated, "There are some things that I am not okay with. I know some characters sort of need something like a bikini or something like that, but even in that, I would say I am not very comfortable with exposing or skin show; I am not that kind of person." She acknowledged that while commercial films might sometimes entail costumes that actors are not entirely at ease with, it is crucial for performers to communicate their concerns and establish limits.

Mandanna further elaborated on her approach, adding, "But at the same time, there are lines that I draw for myself, which most often directors are okay with. Those are the kind of people I prefer working with." Her husband, Vijay Deverakonda, supported her views, highlighting the inherent challenges actors face in having such conversations on set. Karan Johar also referenced his prior conversation with Janhvi Kapoor, noting the sense of vulnerability she experienced after the 'Peddi' controversy.

Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda on ‘Koffee With Karan 9’:

Championing Actor Autonomy and Ethical Filmmaking

Rashmika Mandanna's candid remarks underscore a growing demand for greater actor autonomy and ethical considerations in filmmaking. Her stance resonates with a broader industry conversation about consent, respectful portrayals, and the importance of a safe working environment for artists. This discussion gains further traction as more actors come forward to share their experiences and advocate for change. The episode of Koffee With Karan Season 9 serves as a timely platform, fostering dialogue around the pressures faced by female actors in an industry constantly under public scrutiny. Prithviraj Sukumaran’s ‘Let Woman Objectify the Man’ Remark Resurfaces Amid Janhvi Kapoor’s ‘Peddi’ Row.

As the South Indian film industry continues to evolve, Mandanna's outspokenness on such a crucial issue is likely to encourage more constructive conversations between actors and filmmakers, paving the way for more sensitive and empowering cinematic narratives.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 22, 2026 01:24 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).