Deepika Padukone’s exit from Prabhas-starrer Spirit has resurfaced in the spotlight, nearly a year after she walked away from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s film. This time, the discussion has centred on money and scheduling after producer Pranay Reddy Vanga shared his version of what led to the casting change.
Speaking on a podcast with NTV Telugu, Pranay, who is Sandeep’s brother, said the director had initially wanted to work with Deepika because he admired her work. However, he said several issues emerged once the project moved ahead.
Remuneration, dates behind casting change
According to Pranay, remuneration and availability became two major sticking points. He said Deepika’s fee expectations changed after some of her films performed well, eventually leading to a demand for a share of the film’s earnings.
‘First was remuneration, second was timings. Not just that, there were other reasons as well. I don’t remember on top of my head right now,’ he said in Telugu.
Pranay further alleged, ‘But a lot changes in a period of time. Even some of her films went on to become hits, so she started demanding 10 per cent of net income. Thus everything went overboard.’
Deepika was subsequently replaced by Triptii Dimri in Spirit. The film, led by Prabhas, also features Vivek Oberoi and follows a police officer taking on an international crime syndicate.
What is Deepika Padukone doing now?
While Spirit is no longer part of Deepika’s slate, the actor has several major projects ahead. She is set to appear in Siddharth Anand’s King, starring Shah Rukh Khan, which is currently listed for a December 2026 release. She is also attached to Atlee’s upcoming sci-fi film Raaka, listed for 2027.
Deepika’s other major recent franchise, Kalki 2898 AD, is also moving ahead with its sequel, but she will not return for the second part. The production house announced in September 2025 that it had parted ways with her.
Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s next move
After Spirit, Sandeep Reddy Vanga is expected to turn his attention to Animal Park, the sequel to Ranbir Kapoor’s 2023 blockbuster Animal.
Pranay said the filmmaker plans to take a six-month break after Spirit before beginning work on the sequel.
‘He takes time to write. He doesn’t write in a hurry,’ Pranay said.