‘Peddi’ Will Be a Game-Changer – Jagapathi Babu
The Industry Will Breathe Easy with This Film: Jagapathi Babu
Mega Power Star Ram Charan’s much-awaited rural action drama Peddi is gearing up for a grand worldwide release on June 4. Directed by Buchi Babu Sana and produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru under Vriddhi Cinemas, with presentation by Mythri Movie Makers and Sukumar Writings, the film has already generated massive buzz through its chartbuster songs and spectacular trailer.
Veteran actor Jagapathi Babu, who plays the pivotal role of Appalasuri, shared his excitement and insights about the film during a media interaction.
“The Credit for Appalasuri’s Look Goes Entirely to Buchi Babu”
Speaking about his striking transformation, Jagapathi Babu said the entire credit belongs to director Buchi Babu Sana. The filmmaker envisioned the character in a very specific way and worked closely with National Award-winning makeup artist Rashid to design the look.
“The moment I saw myself in the getup, I knew Appalasuri would be a special character. I’m very particular about appearances, and throughout the film, audiences won’t see Jagapathi Babu—they’ll only see Appalasuri,” he said.
“A Dream Role That I’ll Cherish Forever”
Calling Appalasuri one of the most rewarding roles of his career, Jagapathi Babu said, “Emotionally, performance-wise, and even in terms of appearance, this is a character I absolutely love. Doing such a role in a Ram Charan film made it even more special.”
Reflecting on his filmography, he added, “Since Legend, I’ve done many films, but only a handful of roles remain unforgettable. Appalasuri from Peddi will undoubtedly occupy the number one position among them.”
“It’s Not a Father Role, But a Beautiful Emotional Relationship”
Clarifying his character’s equation with Ram Charan’s role, Jagapathi Babu revealed that Appalasuri is not a father figure.
“It’s a relationship built on affection, trust, and deep emotional bonding. The connection between Appalasuri and Charan’s character is one of the film’s strongest emotional pillars.”
“Dubbing for Appalasuri Was an Incredible Challenge”
Jagapathi Babu described dubbing for the character as one of the toughest yet most satisfying experiences of his career.
“There’s magic in Appalasuri, and there’s magic in the dialect too. I wanted the audience to hear only the character’s voice, not mine. Some days, I spent an entire day recording just two dialogues because every word had to sound authentic.”
He added, “If all the films I’ve done so far are on one level, Peddi is on another altogether.”
“Buchi Babu and Sukumar Give Actors Creative Highs”
When asked about the similarities between Buchi Babu and Sukumar, Jagapathi Babu praised both directors for their clarity and ability to inspire performers.
“They are directors who give actors a creative high. Sukumar once sent me a voice message during Pushpa dubbing and suggested that I stand while dubbing. That advice changed my perspective. I learned that even during dubbing, an actor must live the character.”
According to him, both filmmakers possess exceptional clarity, making an actor’s job much easier.
“Appalasuri Has a Depth I’ve Never Experienced Before”
Jagapathi Babu emphasized that Appalasuri is unlike any role he has portrayed before.
“No character I’ve played has had this combination of emotional depth, appearance, and impact. Audiences will understand why I’m speaking so passionately about it once they watch the film.”
He further stated that screen time is never the true measure of a character’s importance.
“What matters is the impact a character leaves behind. Appalasuri will stay with audiences long after the film ends.”
“Ram Charan Continues to Evolve as an Actor”
Having previously worked with Ram Charan in Rangasthalam, Jagapathi Babu expressed immense admiration for the star.
“Charan is one of the warmest and most genuine people I know. My entire family likes him. I was amazed by the effort he put into Peddi. He performed difficult scenes himself, suffered injuries, and gave everything to the role without relying on body doubles.”
He added that Ram Charan has continued to grow as a performer with every film since Rangasthalam.
“Buchi Babu’s Confidence Has Grown Tremendously”
Speaking about the director, Jagapathi Babu described Buchi Babu as humble, positive, and deeply loved by everyone around him.
“I’ve known him since the days of Rangasthalam. The confidence he has developed over the years is remarkable, and it reflects in Peddi.”
“Producer Satish Kilaru Backed the Film with Passion”
Praising producer Venkata Satish Kilaru, he said, “Satish garu is fortunate to be making this film. Ram Charan remembered a promise he made long ago and fulfilled it through this project. The producer has worked with immense dedication and affection.”
“The Prosthetic Makeup Was Demanding”
Jagapathi Babu revealed that wearing prosthetic makeup came with significant challenges.
“It often caused skin irritation and rashes, and I had to undergo treatment regularly. Every day, the makeup process took nearly three hours. But every bit of that effort was worth it for Appalasuri.”
“A.R. Rahman’s Music Is a Major Strength”
The actor had high praise for Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman.
“Every song released from Peddi has become a major hit. When the music connects so strongly with audiences, half the battle is already won.”
“Peddi Is a Film the Industry Needs Right Now”
Jagapathi Babu believes Peddi arrives at a crucial time for the Telugu film industry.
“This is a film that can give the industry renewed confidence. It feels like a project that everyone can take pride in. As an actor, I’m personally happy because I got an extraordinary character to perform.”
“Working with Ratnavelu Is Always Inspiring”
He also praised cinematographer Ratnavelu for his artistic vision and technical brilliance.
“He takes exceptional care of every aspect of filmmaking. His presence on set always brings positive energy.”
“More Difficult Than Aravinda Sametha”
When asked about the toughest aspect of the film, Jagapathi Babu once again pointed to dubbing.
“Until now, Aravinda Sametha was the film for which I worked hardest during dubbing. But Appalasuri in Peddi demanded even more effort. I invested a tremendous amount of time and energy into finding the perfect voice for the character.”
Upcoming Projects
Jagapathi Babu also revealed that he is currently working on a large-scale web series titled Black and White for Sony LIV.
“It’s a high-budget project and an exciting new venture that I’m looking forward to,” he concluded.
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