Deepika Padukone’s reported exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Prabhas-starrer “Spirit” is again in the spotlight in 2026, after new claims about what was discussed during negotiations resurfaced. The controversy first drew attention when reports said Deepika sought an eight-hour workday and then left the project after the producers allegedly could not accommodate it. The film, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and scheduled for March 2027 release, later cast Triptii Dimri opposite Prabhas.

Following the earlier working-hours reports, Sandeep’s brother Pranay Reddy Vanga makes additional allegations. He says Deepika demanded a 10% share of Spirit’s profits on top of her remuneration and timing requests. He also alleges confidential story and character discussions were leaked. In parallel, other reporting describes a different version of how involved Deepika was: an account shared by outlets citing sources claims she met Vanga only once and did not receive a full narration of the film, which led to her “never” considering the project. Deepika has not issued a direct response to Pranay’s claims, though she has liked posts criticising the row and referencing a “male ego” framing.