As discussions around the portrayal of Janhvi Kapoor in Peddi continue to dominate social media, actor Nithya Menen has weighed in on the larger issue of objectification in cinema, stressing that the problem extends far beyond any one film industry.

Speaking in a recent interview with Variety India, Nithya argued that reducing women to objects for audience appeal is not exclusive to South Indian films. Instead, she described it as a widespread industry trend fuelled by the commercial demands of mainstream entertainment.

According to the actor, the pressure to deliver box-office success often encourages filmmakers to include content designed to "titillate" audiences. "Whatever works commercially and titillates the audience is often indulged in for mass success," she said, adding that the tendency has gone too far. "Is it too much? Absolutely."

Nithya also suggested that performers themselves have a role to play in challenging such portrayals. She said actors should establish clearer boundaries and be willing to voice their discomfort when they feel a scene crosses a line. "I wonder if actors should actually have better boundaries and the person who's performing the scene should be able to put their foot down and say they are not okay with being objectified," she remarked.

The actor further explained that personal choices often come with professional consequences. Recalling her own approach to selecting projects, Nithya said she has willingly passed on opportunities that required her to compromise on her comfort levels.

"Are there films that I don't get to do or genres that I don't get to do because I don't do certain kinds of stuff? Yes. But I am okay with it because I choose that over fame," she said. She added that while some actors may prioritise stardom above all else, every performer ultimately decides where to draw the line.

Her comments arrive amid criticism directed at Peddi over the portrayal of Janhvi Kapoor's character, Achiyyamma. Several viewers felt that the character's introduction focused heavily on her appearance rather than her personality or narrative significance. Another sequence that drew scrutiny involved Ram Charan's character pursuing a romance with Achiyyamma despite her apparent lack of interest, ending in a kiss that some viewers interpreted as non-consensual.

Addressing the controversy, director Buchi Babu Sana recently responded to the criticism and clarified that there was never any intention to disrespect or objectify women. The filmmaker said he has always approached female characters with respect and acknowledged the concerns raised by a section of the audience.

He also apologised to viewers who felt offended by certain scenes and revealed that the team had reviewed the feedback and decided to make changes to the portions that sparked criticism.