Deepika Padukone has finally spoken about her exit from Sandeep Reddy Vangaโs film Spirit. The actress made her first public appearance since the controversy at a Cartier event in Stockholm. She talked about staying true to herself and choosing projects that make her happy.
Reports say Deepika left Spirit due to disagreements over work hours and pay. The film stars Prabhas, and Triptii Dimri has now replaced her. Sandeep Reddy Vanga criticized Deepika indirectly on social media, calling her actions “dirty PR games.”
At the Cartier event, Deepika did not mention the film directly. But her words seemed to hint at the situation. She said she listens to her gut feeling when making decisions. She also talked about working with people she enjoys being around.
“I think what keeps me balanced is just being truthful and authentic. Whenever I am faced with complicated or difficult situationsโฆ To be able to listen to my inner voice, make decisions and stand by decisions, that really give me a lot of peace. That is when I feel most in equilibrium.”
Deepika also said in another interview:
“I just listen to my gut, what feels right. I think itโs easier said than done. But, when you shut out the noise around you, and you listen to just your gut, I think the answers are always there. Wanting to collaborate with people that I know I am gonna have a good time working with.”
The controversy started when reports claimed Deepika had strict demands for Spirit. These included an 8-hour workday, a Rs 20 crore fee, and refusing to speak Telugu. Some say she left because of bold scenes in the script, but this is not confirmed.
Sandeep Reddy Vanga reacted strongly on X (formerly Twitter). He did not name Deepika but hinted at her.
“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 areโฆ Putting down a younger actor and ousting my story? Is this what your feminism stands for?”
Fans are divided. Some support Deepika for standing her ground. Others believe she was unprofessional. Many also criticized the way Triptii Dimri was dragged into the controversy.
“DP was not removed; she chose not to do the film where the director did not accept her demands. Also, whatโs wrong with doing an A-rated film? Why always shame Tripti?”
“Finally, Deepikaโs ugly PR game has met its match in Vanga. She leaked the bold scenes bit to get Tripti hate.”
Deepika has not responded directly to Sandeepโs comments. Her team has stayed silent too. Meanwhile, Spirit is moving forward with Triptii Dimri as the female lead. The film is expected to start shooting soon.
This is not the first time Deepika has walked away from a project over pay and conditions. In the past, she refused a film when she was offered less than the male lead. She believes in fair pay for equal work.
Some industry experts say her demands are reasonable. Others argue they disrupt film schedules. The debate continues as fans and media discuss the issue.
Deepikaโs focus now seems to be on balancing work and family life. She became a mother last year and is slowly returning to films. Her next projects include Shah Rukh Khanโs King and Allu Arjunโs film with Atlee.
The Spirit controversy highlights the challenges actors face in the film industry. Creative differences and personal priorities often clash. For now, Deepika is standing by her choices and moving forward.
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