Filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga, known for his blockbuster hits like Animal and Kabir Singh, is gearing up for his next intense crime action thriller, Spirit. However, the film’s journey hit a snag when lead actress Deepika Padukone made a controversial exit from the project. Initially confirmed alongside actor Prabhas, Deepika reportedly left the film due to disagreements concerning working hours, Telugu dialogues, and the bold nature of certain scenes.
Following her departure, Vanga replaced Padukone with actress Tripti Dimri, praising Tripti’s ease and comfort with the demanding and A-rated sequences the film promises. While announcing the new casting, Vanga appeared supportive of the change, emphasizing the commitment and intensity required for the role.
The controversy escalated on May 26, when Sandeep Reddy Vanga took to Twitter (now X) to publicly call out Deepika Padukone. He accused her of playing “dirty PR games” and suggested she breached an unspoken NDA by leaking details about the film. Vanga’s tweets expressed his disappointment, stating, “When I narrate a story to an actor, I place 100% faith… Putting down a younger actor and ousting my story? Is this what your feminism stands for?” He further criticized her understanding of filmmaking, underscoring the years of hard work he invests into his craft.
Though there is no official confirmation regarding the story leak, reports suggest that Deepika had requested a hefty salary of Rs 20 crore, limited working hours capped at eight per day, and a share in the film’s profits. This public fallout has stirred significant buzz around the film and its production, spotlighting the creative and professional clashes behind the scenes.
