The controversy surrounding Deepika Padukone’s exit from Prabhas-starrer Spirit has resurfaced after producer Pranay Reddy Vanga shared fresh details about the failed casting negotiations. Speaking to NTV Telugu, Pranay said discussions with Deepika continued for nearly 18 months but eventually broke down over remuneration, scheduling and other terms. He claimed that the actress had sought 10% of the film’s profits in addition to other conditions, which the makers felt were not compatible with the project’s budget. Earlier reports had focused on Deepika’s alleged demand for an eight-hour workday, but the producer indicated that multiple factors contributed to the disagreement. Pranay also alleged that confidential details about Spirit and Deepika’s proposed character were leaked after the production team began considering other actresses, saying the incident had disturbed the filmmakers. The comments have renewed attention on director Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s cryptic 2025 social media post, in which he criticised an unnamed actor for allegedly breaching confidentiality and referred to an “unsaid NDA” between filmmakers and actors. Neither Deepika Padukone nor her representatives have publicly responded to the latest claims. The casting controversy continues to draw attention as Spirit, starring Prabhas, remains one of the most anticipated upcoming projects.
