Following Deepika Padukone’s reported exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s highly anticipated film Spirit, the filmmakers have now officially announced her replacement. Triptii Dimri, who previously worked with Vanga on the Ranbir Kapoor-led Animal, will take on the lead role.
According to details, Triptii Dimri’s casting was revealed by Bhushan Kumar’s T-Series via social media. The announcement, posted on Instagram, read:
“A powerful new on-screen pairing is here! We’re thrilled to welcome #TriptiDimri on board for our ambitious pan-world film #SPIRIT, starring #Prabhas and directed by @imvangasandeep. Produced by #BhushanKumar, #SandeepReddyVanga and #PranayReddyVanga. Shoot begins in 2025. Stay tuned for more!”
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Just a month ago, Deepika’s involvement in Spirit had created significant buzz, as it was set to be her first collaboration with Vanga and her second with Prabhas, following their 2024 hit Kalki 2898 AD.
However, according to a recent report from Bollywood Hungama, she has stepped away from the project, reportedly due to disagreements over specific demands. Sources claim Deepika requested an eight-hour workday, a remuneration of Rs 20 crore, and had declined to dub her dialogues in Telugu.
“As a new mother, wanting an eight-hour workday isn’t unreasonable,” a source stated. “It’s natural for actors who become mothers to be more selective and set clearer boundaries. This trend isn’t unique to the film industry—workplaces across sectors are becoming more supportive of new mothers.”
Earlier this month, in an interview with Marie Claire, Deepika shared insights into her life as a new mom. She recalled an instance where she turned down a director’s request to meet, prioritizing time with her newborn daughter, Dua. The director’s response: “Oh, looks like she’s taking motherhood very seriously.”