- Anu Aggarwal emphasised dignity in storytelling and the responsibility of actors in script choices
- She encouraged actors to refuse roles that compromise human dignity and to ask questions first
- Anu's post followed controversy over Ram Charan's film Peddi and Janhvi Kapoor's character portrayal
Former actress Anu Aggarwal has reacted to the ongoing conversations surrounding the film Peddi, which have sparked discussions about the portrayal of women in cinema.
Reflecting on her own journey in the industry, the actress emphasised the importance of dignity in storytelling and said that the responsibility lies not only with filmmakers and audiences, but also with actors when choosing scripts.
Sharing her photographs on Instagram, Anu Aggarwal wrote, "The recent conversations around Peddi reminded me of a choice I made long ago. I applaud today's audience for speaking up and asking for more dignity in the portrayal of women. But responsibility does not rest only with the audience. Nor does it rest only with filmmakers.
"It rests with us actors too. More than 30 years ago, after Aashiqui, I made it a point to hear the story before signing a film. Objectification of women was the norm. I chose to act against that norm. The films I did stand as testimony to that choice. In many ways, that is one of the reasons I eventually walked away from films.
"Today, I encourage young actors and actresses to hear the story first. Ask questions. And if something compromises human dignity, have the courage to say no. Stories will change when audiences demand better. But they will also change when we actors refuse to participate in what we no longer believe in. #CoverGirl #BelieveInYourself #SelfCare #SocialConsciousness #AnuFunYoga," she added.
The makers of Peddi, starring Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor, faced controversy after some viewers criticised the portrayal of Janhvi's character, Achiyyamma, calling it objectifying and problematic. As the online backlash grew, director Buchi Babu Sana responded publicly and apologised on social media. He also confirmed that the disputed scenes in the film would be edited.
An excerpt from his statement read: "As a filmmaker, I believe cinema should entertain, inspire and connect with audiences. It should never make anyone feel uncomfortable or disrespected. We have heard the feedback regarding certain scenes in Peddi and have taken it seriously. I have always had immense respect for women, both on and off screen, and it was never our intention to objectify or disrespect any female character. If any part of the film has been perceived that way, we respect those sentiments, understand the concerns being raised, and sincerely apologise."
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