Filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga, known for his bold storytelling and recent blockbuster Animal, has stirred fresh controversy with a cryptic but pointed post accusing an unnamed actor of leaking his story, playing dirty PR games, and undermining a younger co-star. The post comes amid speculation that Deepika Padukone exited Vanga's upcoming film ‘Spirit’ — starring Prabhas — due to creative differences.
In his strongly worded message on X (formerly Twitter), Vanga did not name anyone, but the timing and context strongly hint at Deepika Padukone. He expressed betrayal over the alleged breach of trust, accusing the actor of outing confidential plot details and questioned her stance on feminism:
“When I narrate a story to an actor, I place 100% faith... You've 'DISCLOSED' the person that you are... Putting down a younger actor and ousting my story? Is this what your feminism stands for?”
He further wrote:
“You didn't get it. You won't get it. You will never get it... #dirtyPRgames.”
Vanga ended the post with a Hindi proverb, mocking the actor's actions:
"Khundak mein billi khamba noche" (An embarrassed cat scratches the pole).
Context Behind the Post:
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Deepika Padukone was initially confirmed as the lead opposite Prabhas, reportedly with one of the highest pay packages for a female actor in India.
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However, she abruptly exited the project. Rumours cite creative differences, work timings, profit-sharing demands, and disagreement over certain scenes.
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Amid this, the makers announced Triptii Dimri (of Animal fame) as the new lead — seen by many as a promotion for the rising star.
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Vanga’s post suggests he believes the original actor tried to sabotage both the film and Triptii Dimri’s casting through negative media campaigns.
Official Silence:
Neither Deepika Padukone nor her team has released a statement about her departure from Spirit. Similarly, the producers of the film have refrained from commenting on the speculation.
About Spirit:
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Spirit is Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s next major pan-Indian action film after Animal.
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It stars Prabhas as a cop, marking his return to a grounded, action-packed role.
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The film is being mounted on a Rs 300 crore budget, and Vanga has said it will “open to Rs 150 crore on Day 1.”
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South Korean actor Don Lee (of Train to Busan and Eternals fame) is rumoured to be part of the film.
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The full cast, crew, and shooting schedule are yet to be officially announced.
This controversy has reignited conversations about PR-driven narratives, confidentiality in the film industry, and the power dynamics between top stars and filmmakers — especially when newer talent enters the picture.
