The Telugu film industry is buzzing with excitement as Peddi (working title RC16), starring Ram Charan and directed by Buchi Babu Sana, shapes up to be one of the biggest releases in the coming years. Among the most debated aspects of this much-anticipated project is its music composer.

Fans and critics alike are split between two titans of Indian music—A.R. Rahman and Devi Sri Prasad (DSP)—wondering who is the “correct” choice for this rural action drama. The release of the Peddi First Shot glimpse on April 2, 2025, has only added fuel to the fire, with several posts on X (formerly Twitter) suggesting that Rahman composed the background score for the teaser.

But is Rahman truly the best fit? Or would DSP’s high-energy style suit Peddi better? Let’s explore the strengths, styles, and suitability of both legends to find out.

🎬 The Peddi Hype: Why Music Matters So Much

Directed by Buchi Babu Sana of Uppena fame, Peddi promises an emotionally charged, action-packed story set in a rustic backdrop. With Ram Charan riding high after RRR, the film’s music will play a crucial role in storytelling, emotional connection, and box office impact.

The recently released Peddi First Shot glimpse already has fans talking about its background score. X users claim that Rahman’s elevation music towards the end stands out as a highlight. While this hints at his involvement, DSP’s name still lingers in the conversation due to his track record with similar films.

A.R. Rahman: The Maestro of Emotion and Experimentation

Who Is A.R. Rahman?

Known globally as the “Mozart of Madras”, A.R. Rahman is a two-time Oscar winner, Grammy recipient, and Padma Bhushan awardee. His work has redefined Indian film music with a fusion of classical, folk, and world music elements.

In Telugu cinema, his past includes gems like Roja, Premikudu, Ye Maya Chesave, and the Tamil-Telugu bilingual Naane Varuvean.

Why Rahman Could Be Perfect for Peddi

1. Emotional Resonance: From Roja to Dil Se, Rahman’s melodies stick with you long after the credits roll. If Peddi dives into deep emotional arcs, his subtle, heart-touching compositions could elevate its soul.
2. Rustic Authenticity with Class: He has a proven flair for folk elements (Lagaan, Rang De Basanti)—exactly the kind of authenticity Peddi needs.
3. Global Soundscape: With Ram Charan’s international fan base post-RRR, Rahman’s global sound could give Peddi international appeal.
4. Innovative Background Scores: Rahman’s orchestration and use of layered soundscapes could set Peddi apart from formulaic Telugu scores.

Rahman’s Track Record in Telugu

Rahman’s Telugu discography includes:

• Cheliya Cheliya – Premikudu
• Nuvvu Nuvvu – Kadhalan
• Select background contributions to Rangasthalam

His background scores, especially in recent glimpses like Peddi First Shot, have a powerful emotional undertone—something fans are already praising online.

Devi Sri Prasad: The Beat Master of Tollywood

Who Is DSP?

Devi Sri Prasad, affectionately called DSP, is the undisputed hit machine of Telugu cinema. Known for his peppy numbers and adrenaline-pumping background scores, he has over 100 films to his credit, working with almost every major star in Tollywood.

⚡ Why DSP Might Be the Right Fit for Peddi

1. Mass Appeal: From Pushpa to Gabbar Singh, DSP knows how to get audiences dancing and clapping. For an action-packed hero vehicle, that’s a huge advantage.
2. Deep Telugu Roots: DSP understands the pulse of the Telugu audience like no other. His music connects instantly with rural and urban fans alike.
3. Ram Charan Combo: DSP has worked with Charan on Rangasthalam, Naayak, and more. Their proven chemistry is a major asset.
4. Hit Dance Numbers: If Peddi includes folk-style or celebratory songs, DSP is the man for viral mass tracks (Srivalli, Ammadu Let’s Do Kummudu).

DSP’s Record in Rural & Mass Films

• Rangasthalam – A defining moment in DSP’s career, blending folk and mass perfectly.
• Pushpa: The Rise – Intense background score + chartbuster tracks.
• Gabbar Singh & Attarintiki Daredi – Massy albums that ruled playlists.

The Showdown: Rahman vs. DSP for Peddi

🎭 Emotion vs. Energy

The heart of this debate lies in what kind of film Peddi truly is.

• If it’s a raw, emotional journey like Uppena → Rahman.
• If it’s a commercial mass entertainer like Rangasthalam → DSP.

Hints from Peddi First Shot

Social media buzz tilts toward Rahman:

“Rahman’s elevation music in the glimpse gave goosebumps.” — @ivdhyasagar
“Buchi Babu + Rahman = Magic Loading.” — @CultFanOfC_RT

Still, there’s no official announcement, and DSP’s silence could mean he’s still in the picture.

Director’s Style: A Clue?

• Buchi Babu worked with DSP for Uppena, known for its heartfelt music.
• However, Peddi seems to be on a larger pan-India scale—possibly needing Rahman’s cinematic sound.

Ram Charan’s Brand

Charan has balanced:

• Rahman’s emotion (RRR global reach)
• DSP’s energy (Rangasthalam local domination)

So, Peddi could go either way, depending on the tone the team ultimately chooses.

Final Verdict: Who Is the Right Choice?

If It’s A.R. Rahman…

• Expect emotional depth, artistic finesse, and global appeal.
• A unique soundscape that could set Peddi apart in pan-Indian cinema.
• A challenge: balancing sophistication with mass expectations.

If It’s Devi Sri Prasad…

• Expect chartbusters and an instant connect with Telugu audiences.
• Commercially safe, but possibly less experimental.
• Guaranteed fan service and dance-floor domination.

💡 Could Both Be Involved?

While rare, dual-composer projects do happen (Baahubali featured Keeravaani and Rahman influences). A dream scenario:

• Rahman handles background score and melodies.
• DSP delivers the high-energy mass tracks.

Such a combo could satisfy both emotional depth and crowd-pleasing needs—but it remains speculative.

🎤 What Do You Think?

As of April 7, 2025, all signs point to A.R. Rahman being the composer for Peddi, based on the First Shot buzz. But fans of Devi Sri Prasad are still holding out hope.

🎧 Will Peddi resonate with Rahman’s musical magic or DSP’s mass mania?

Drop your thoughts in the comments below and stay tuned to Telugu Tone for all the latest updates on Peddi, Ram Charan, and Tollywood’s biggest debates.