Filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga has sparked controversy following Deepika Padukone’s reported exit from his upcoming film Spirit, starring Prabhas. On Monday night, Vanga posted a cryptic yet scathing message on his X (formerly Twitter) account, indirectly targeting the actress for allegedly leaking parts of the film’s story and engaging in what he called “dirty PR games.”
Vanga Calls Out ‘Unprofessionalism’
While Vanga did not mention Deepika by name, his post made it clear that he was responding to her recent departure from the film. “When I narrate a story to an actor, I place 100% faith. There is an unsaid NDA between us,” he wrote. He accused the unnamed actress of not only breaching trust but also undermining a younger co-actor and his years of hard work. “You didn’t get it. You won’t get it. You will never get it,” he concluded.
In a Hindi proverb, he added, “खुंदक में बिल्ली खंबा नोचे” — implying an irrational reaction out of frustration.
Reasons Behind Deepika’s Exit
Reports suggest that Deepika, a new mother, had requested limited working hours, a high fee, and a share in the profits—demands that allegedly didn’t sit well with Vanga. Sources claim this led to her removal from the project. Deepika’s team has not issued an official statement yet.
When I narrate a story to an actor, I place 100% faith. There is an unsaid NDA(Non Disclosure Agreement) between us. But by doing this, You’ve ‘DISCLOSED’ the person that you are….
Putting down a Younger actor and ousting my story? Is this what your feminism stands for ? As a…— Sandeep Reddy Vanga (@imvangasandeep) May 26, 2025
Triptii Dimri Steps In
Following Deepika’s departure, actress Triptii Dimri was announced as the new female lead of Spirit. On Saturday, she shared the film’s title poster in multiple languages and wrote, “Still sinking in… So grateful to be trusted with this journey. Thank you @sandeepreddy.vanga.”
Spirit marks Vanga’s next major directorial after the upcoming release of Kalki 2898 AD.
