The recent backlash surrounding Janhvi Kapoor’s character Achiyyamma in the film Peddi has brought renewed attention to a past interview where she addressed the issue of over-sexualisation in the film industry. In April, during a discussion on Raj Shamani’s podcast, Janhvi confided her thoughts regarding the portrayal of women in cinema and her need for consent in any representation that borders on sensuality.

In the podcast, she stated that although sensuality does not disturb her if she has provided her consent, the notion of being sexualised without her agreement is unacceptable. This sentiment has gained traction as the controversy surrounding Peddi unfolds, where her character’s depiction has been met with criticism.

Assertion of Boundaries on Set

Janhvi elaborated on her journey of learning to assert herself on film sets, particularly concerning the angles from which she is filmed. She expressed a desire to voice her discomfort if particular filming techniques or camera placements make her uneasy, stating that she wishes to do so without being viewed as unprofessional.

She acknowledged that, traditionally, she has been careful in her approach, often opting to choose her battles wisely. However, Janhvi mentioned that she is growing more confident in articulating her concerns. This newfound assertiveness, she noted, has helped her ensure that her boundaries are respected while still upholding a level of professionalism.

The actor’s revelations come at a time when discussions about the representation of women and their consent in media are becoming increasingly relevant, particularly in light of the scrutiny directed at the depiction of her character in Peddi.

Impact of Public Perception and Industry Expectations

In the same conversation, Janhvi reflected on how public perception and the expectations within the film industry can significantly affect the types of roles offered to actresses. She mentioned that filmmakers often prefer to present heroines in glamorous or provocative ways to cater to audience preferences.

Janhvi highlighted how this trend shapes casting decisions, often prioritising appearances over a character’s depth. She emphasised the importance of moving beyond superficial representations and urged for roles that allow for more substantial portrayals of women in cinema.

Since her debut in 2018 with the romantic drama Dhadak, Janhvi has continued to evolve as an artist. Her more recent works, such as Homebound, received acclaim for addressing hard-hitting themes, including social discrimination faced by lower-caste individuals. In her latest project, Peddi, alongside Ram Charan, she aims to contribute to ongoing conversations about representation and consent in the media.

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