Deepika Padukone, a global icon with over 18 years in the film industry, is no stranger to headlines — whether for her stellar performances or strong opinions. But this time, the spotlight isn’t for a blockbuster film or a red carpet appearance — it's for a controversy brewing on the sets of her next potential project, Spirit. Directed by Animal fame Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Spirit is a pan-India venture set to release in eight languages and stars a remarkable cast: Korea’s superstar Dong Li, Prabhas in a fearless cop avatar, and Bollywood power couple Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan as on-screen rivals. It’s the kind of casting that sends fans into a frenzy — and a project that could’ve been monumental.
Initially, Vanga approached Mrunal Thakur for the female lead. However, sources say she was deemed "unfit" for the role. Deepika was then offered the part — but that’s where things began to unravel. Reports suggest she quoted a fee of ₹25 crores and demanded shooting hours aligned with her personal schedule, opting to wrap up by 4 PM. Vanga, known for his intense shoots that run till 2 AM, countered with ₹15 crores — a deal Deepika allegedly declined, stating, "Why are female actors always paid less than male actors? Bollywood is still a male-dominated field."
While her stance on gender equality echoes a larger issue in the industry, critics argue that this wasn’t the time or place for such a battle. Instead of opening doors, her demands may have closed one — with Spirit potentially being her post-pregnancy comeback vehicle.
The fallout? Rising star Triptii Dimri has reportedly been signed for the role — a golden opportunity that could catapult her career to the next level. Meanwhile, Deepika’s name continues to swirl in industry gossip — not for her performances, but for “tantrums” and alleged victimhood.
The irony is striking. Deepika is one of the highest-paid actresses in the world, a fact that empowers her voice but also sets higher expectations. Many wonder if her feminist stance is being misunderstood — or misused — in contexts that require professional compromise.
Another project, King, with Shah Rukh Khan, is said to be in the pipeline. But one can’t help but ask: will this pattern of rigid demands cost Deepika another major opportunity?
While debates around pay parity and working conditions are valid, the timing and context matter. Deepika's refusal to adjust to the director’s requirements — even for a career-defining role — raises tough questions. Is the industry unfair, or is it a case of personal choice being packaged as a larger issue?
Only time will tell if Deepika’s decisions help reshape Bollywood — or isolate her from its biggest stages.