Deepika Padukone exit from Spirit had profit share demand, says producer

Deepika Padukone's exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's 'Spirit' has resurfaced after producer Pranay Reddy Vanga claimed she demanded a 10 percent profit share in the film. Pranay, the director's brother, told NTV Telugu that negotiations lasted 18 months and broke down over remuneration, scheduling, and working conditions. He said the economics did not work for the project's budget.

Reports last year had linked Deepika's exit to her request for an eight-hour workday as a new mother. The actress has not responded to the latest allegations. However, she has reportedly liked an Instagram post that called out the Vanga brothers for criticising a woman for making a demand standard for male stars. The post, shared by a journalist, gathered over 8,000 likes within 12 hours. Triptii Dimri was later cast as the female lead opposite Prabhas. 'Spirit' is scheduled for release on March 5, 2027.