Veteran actor Madhoo Shah, known for her role in Phool Aur Kaante, has come out in support of Deepika Padukone amid the growing debate surrounding her exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s upcoming film Spirit, co-starring Prabhas. Madhoo defended Deepika’s decision, calling it a matter of “personal choice and negotiation,” not conflict.
“It is not about having conflicts and constantly fighting. Everything in life is negotiation, and one must know their worth,” Madhoo said.
Deepika’s Departure Sparks Industry Buzz
Deepika Padukone, who recently welcomed her first child, reportedly opted out of Spirit due to scheduling concerns. Sources say she had requested:
- An eight-hour workday
- Profit share in the project
- Exemption from Telugu dialogues
These conditions were reportedly not accepted by the director, leading to her exit. The development has prompted industry-wide conversations around work-life balance, especially for new mothers in cinema.
Madhoo weighed in further, stating:
“If Deepika wanted the movie so badly and was willing to make other arrangements, she would have accepted it, but she did not, and that’s her personal choice. So, I don’t see a big reason for debate.”
When asked about whether other filmmakers might accommodate such requests, Madhoo responded with candour:
“I ask for something, you don’t want to give it, and then you let me go. And that’s it… When you want it very badly, you compromise. When you don’t, you say, ‘Sorry, I’m not doing it.’ It’s a negotiation.”
Applauding Changing Norms for Women in Cinema
Madhoo also praised the shift being driven by women like Deepika who are not afraid to challenge traditional norms:
“They are paving the way for the next generation.”
Meanwhile, Madhoo is set to appear in the Telugu mythological epic Kannappa, directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh. The film stars Vishnu Manchu in the lead, with special appearances by Prabhas, Mohanlal, and Akshay Kumar.
As for Spirit, it remains to be seen who will replace Deepika opposite Prabhas in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s much-hyped cop-action drama.
