As Ram Charan travels across the country promoting his upcoming film ‘Peddi’, an unexpected figure has emerged as a social media sensation. Kevin Kunta, the actor's personal bodyguard, has become a topic of discussion among fans, with many eager to learn more about the man frequently seen by the star's side.

Videos and photographs from recent promotional events have sparked widespread curiosity about Kevin, whose towering presence and disciplined demeanour have made him stand out. Interest intensified further after many online users discovered that he is not only part of Ram Charan's security team but also a professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter originally from The Gambia and currently based in Italy. 

Ram Charan jokes about Kevin's growing popularity

Kevin's newfound fame recently became a talking point during one of Peddi's promotional interviews. Responding to the public fascination surrounding his bodyguard, Ram Charan addressed the trend with humour.

Speaking during a Hindi interview with ABP, the actor joked, "Aap log itna famous bana diya usko, abhi mai bahar nahi allow kar raha hoon usko. Usko ek chocolate de, biscuit de, aur mere baare meithey might bribe him."

He went on to explain that people had made Kevin so popular that he was jokingly reluctant to let him step outside, suggesting someone might tempt him with snacks to reveal information about the actor.

When co-star Boman Irani remarked that such a tactic might not work, Ram Charan continued, pointing towards Kevin off-camera and saying, "Mr Kevin. Jab bhi hum bahar jaate gain (Whenever we go out), all the family and the kids and all [ask]. He used to work for us for the last four months, sorry, four years."

The actor then clarified that Kevin has accompanied the family on outings for the past four years, including occasions involving children and relatives.

A professional fighter from The Gambia

While many know him today as Ram Charan's trusted security aide, Kevin has built a career in professional combat sports long before gaining attention in the entertainment world.

His Instagram profile identifies him as an international MMA fighter from The Gambia who currently lives in Florence, Italy. The account has attracted nearly 82,000 followers, a figure that has continued to grow amid the recent attention.

According to MMA records platform Tapology, Kevin's real name is Abdou Kadirr Sowe. Born in 1998 in The Gambia, he competes in the middleweight division and fights out of Florence. Available records show he has registered four professional victories and six defeats, with his most recent bout taking place in November 2025.

Reports have also suggested that he previously represented the Italian national MMA team, further highlighting his experience within the sport.

Beyond his MMA career, Kevin also enjoys recognition in his home country. The Gambia Wrestling Association reportedly refers to him as "Mama Lamin of Barra", a nickname that reflects his standing within local sporting circles.

His background in professional fighting, combined with his imposing physical presence, has made him a natural fit for high-profile security assignments. Throughout the ‘Peddi’ promotional campaign, fans have frequently spotted him closely accompanying Ram Charan at public events, often dressed in a dark suit and maintaining a discreet but watchful presence.

Speculation over his earnings

Kevin's popularity has also led to speculation regarding his income as a celebrity bodyguard. Several entertainment pages and social media accounts have circulated claims that he charges between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 4 lakh per day for security duties.

Some reports have even estimated that such figures could translate into monthly earnings ranging from Rs 60 lakh to Rs 1 crore. However, there has been no official confirmation regarding these claims.

About 'Peddi'

Directed by Buchi Babu Sana, ‘Peddi’ is an action-sports drama set in rural Andhra Pradesh during the 1980s.

The film stars Ram Charan in the lead role alongside Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu, Divyenndu and Boman Irani. Music has been composed by Oscar-winning musician A R Rahman.

Produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru under Vriddhi Cinemas and co-produced by Ishan Saksena under IVY Entertainment, the film is presented by Mythri Movie Makers and Sukumar Writings.

‘Peddi’ is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on June 4, with paid premiere shows taking place a day earlier.