Nithya Menen Reacts to ‘Peddi’ Objectification Debate, Stresses Actors Must Set Boundaries

Actor Nithya Menen has joined the ongoing discussion surrounding the alleged objectification controversy linked to the film Peddi, which has also drawn attention to Janhvi Kapoor’s portrayal in the project. While clarifying that she has not watched the film, Menen shared strong views on the broader issue of how women are represented in cinema.

“Objectification Exists Across All Film Industries”

Speaking to Variety India, Nithya Menen addressed concerns around the portrayal of women on screen, stating that objectification is not confined to any one regional industry but is a global issue driven largely by commercial cinema trends.

She pointed out that content decisions are often influenced by what works commercially, sometimes leading to the excessive use of sensational or suggestive portrayals to attract audiences.

Industry Boundaries and Actor Responsibility

Menen emphasised that actors themselves must take responsibility for setting clear professional boundaries.

She suggested that performers should be able to refuse scenes they are uncomfortable with and communicate their limits from the outset of their careers.

According to her, clarity at the beginning of an actor’s journey helps avoid conflicts later, especially when working in commercial environments that may prioritise market appeal.

“You Can Assert Yourself, You Are Not Helpless”

Rejecting the idea that actors are powerless in such situations, Menen stated that performers always retain agency over their choices.

She explained that career decisions often come with trade-offs, including the possibility of losing out on certain roles or mainstream visibility, but these choices ultimately reflect individual priorities.

For Menen, maintaining personal comfort and artistic integrity is more important than chasing widespread fame at any cost.

Comments on Career Choices and Industry Expectations

The actor also highlighted that consistency in one’s professional choices matters. According to her, shifting positions later in a career without earlier clarity may make concerns less impactful within the industry.

She stressed that every actor must decide early on what kind of work they are willing to do and what they are not, and then stand by those decisions.

Janhvi Kapoor Has Not Responded

As of now, Janhvi Kapoor has not issued any public statement regarding the ongoing discussion around Peddi. The matter continues to circulate across entertainment media and social platforms, with mixed opinions emerging from industry voices.