The controversy surrounding Deepika Padukone‘s departure from the Prabhas-starrer ‘Spirit’ has taken a new turn. Pranay Reddy Vanga, the film’s producer and brother of director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, has now opened up about the real reasons behind the actress leaving the project. In a recent interview, he revealed that Deepika Padukone asked for a 10% share of the film’s profits, which eventually made the collaboration financially difficult for the makers.
The discussions between Deepika Padukone and the ‘Spirit’ team went on for nearly one-and-a-half years. Sandeep Reddy Vanga was very keen to cast her opposite Prabhas in the action drama. However, the talks broke down over money, working hours, and other issues.
Producer Reveals Deepika’s 10% Profit Demand
Pranay Reddy Vanga spoke to NTV Telugu and shared detailed information about what happened during the negotiations. He said that the disagreement was not just about adding another ₹5-6 crore to Deepika Padukone‘s fee. The actress wanted a percentage of the film’s total earnings after its release.
“She demanded 10 percent from the film’s profit. Soon after, everything went overboard. See, she can ask for anything. If we are willing to give, we can give. But the economics (budget) should also work out for us. We thought that it was not working.”
The producer explained that the team had to consider whether such a profit-sharing arrangement would work within the film’s overall budget. Pranay Reddy Vanga mentioned that the makers were actually willing to increase Deepika Padukone‘s acting fee. But the profit demand changed the equation completely.
Producer Alleges Story and Character Details Were Leaked
Pranay Reddy Vanga also made a serious claim about what happened after the team started looking at other casting options. He alleged that confidential information about the film’s story and Deepika Padukone‘s character was made public.
“We discussed the story and character with her. Things discussed internally should not be revealed, but she leaked all of them. That is why we are disturbed.”
The producer said the team had spent more than a year discussing the project with the actress. He expressed disappointment that private conversations reportedly became public knowledge. According to Pranay Reddy Vanga, the leaks started after the makers began exploring other options for the female lead.
Director’s Cryptic Social Media Post Gains Attention
Pranay Reddy Vanga‘s comments have brought back attention to a post Sandeep Reddy Vanga made on social media in May 2025. The director had written about an actor allegedly breaking his trust by sharing story details.
“When I narrate a story to an actor, I place 100% faith. There is an unsaid NDA between us. But by doing this, You’ve ‘DISCLOSED’ the person that you are.”
At that time, Sandeep Reddy Vanga did not name anyone in his post. But now, with his brother’s interview, many are connecting the dots. The director’s post also mentioned “dirty PR games” and expressed anger about how the situation unfolded.
The Eight-Hour Workday Controversy
Before this new revelation, the main reason given for Deepika Padukone‘s exit was her demand for an eight-hour working shift. Reports had claimed that she wanted to work five days a week with eight-hour days. There were also reports that she did not agree to deliver dialogues in Telugu.
Deepika Padukone had previously addressed this criticism. She questioned why actresses are judged for setting work-hour boundaries when male stars have also had similar conditions.
“I don’t think what I am asking for is ridiculously unfair. I am saying this, if I may say so myself, a top star, so you can only imagine what the working conditions must be like for everyone else, for the crew, for example.”
Triptii Dimri Replaces Deepika Padukone
After Deepika Padukone left the project, the makers brought in Triptii Dimri to play the female lead opposite Prabhas. Triptii Dimri had previously worked with Sandeep Reddy Vanga in the film ‘Animal’ starring Ranbir Kapoor.
‘Spirit’ is scheduled to arrive in theaters on March 5, 2027. The film has Prabhas in the lead role and is one of the most awaited projects in Indian cinema. The casting change from Deepika Padukone to Triptii Dimri had already created a lot of buzz in the film industry.
Deepika Also Lost Kalki 2898 AD Sequel
This is not the only project Deepika Padukone has recently exited. She also lost the sequel to ‘Kalki 2898 AD’. The production house Vyjayanthi Movies made an official announcement on social media.
“This is to officially announce that @deepikapadukone will not be a part of the upcoming sequel of #Kalki2898AD. After careful consideration, We have decided to part ways.”
The statement mentioned that despite the long journey of making the first film, they were unable to find a partnership. They wished her the best for her future work.
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What’s Next for ‘Spirit’
The film ‘Spirit’ continues to move forward with its new cast. Triptii Dimri has already started preparing for her role. The makers are focused on completing the project for its scheduled release.
Deepika Padukone has not yet responded to the latest claims made by Pranay Reddy Vanga. Her team has remained silent on the allegations about profit demands and story leaks. The actress is currently busy with her other professional commitments and personal life as a new mother.
The controversy has once again raised questions about pay parity and working conditions in the Indian film industry. While some support Deepika Padukone‘s right to negotiate better terms, others believe that profit-sharing demands can make projects financially unviable.
The situation shows how complicated film negotiations can be, especially when top stars are involved. Both sides had their reasons, and the project ultimately moved in a different direction.
Also Read: Spirit Release Date Stays: Prabhas vs Salman Khan Box Office Clash Confirmed for Eid 2027
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