In recent weeks, the film industry has been buzzing with debates around actress Deepika Padukone’s behaviour and professional choices. Many insiders and fans now feel that the problems lie more with Deepika herself than with the filmmakers.
The controversy dates back to when director Sandeep Reddy Vanga announced his film Spirit with Prabhas in the lead role. At the time, Deepika was officially confirmed as the heroine. However, shortly after the announcement, the actress gave birth to her first child.
Following this, she reportedly requested eight working days for the shoot, along with a very high remuneration. Sources say that her demands did not sit well with the makers. Eventually, Vanga decided to replace Deepika with actress Triptii Dimri, who gained popularity through Animal.
Back then, the decision caused a split in opinion. While some supported Sandeep, many defended Deepika, saying that as a new mother, her requests were reasonable. The sympathy she received from the public and fellow celebrities worked strongly in her favour, and Sandeep faced heavy criticism.
Just as the matter seemed to have settled, production house Vyjayanthi Movies officially announced that Deepika would no longer be part of Kalki 2. This has reignited the earlier debate, once again putting her professional approach under scrutiny.
This time, however, the tide of opinion appears different. People who once defended Deepika are now supporting Sandeep, saying his decision was correct. Social media is filled with old interviews and clips, where netizens argue that while asking is acceptable, making big demands is not.
Many pointed out that when working with a pan-India star like Prabhas, compromises are part of the job for everyone, not just the heroine. By insisting on her own conditions, they argue, Deepika invited unnecessary disputes.
Critics also note that Deepika should have clarified matters when she first stepped away from Spirit. Instead, her silence fuelled speculation. Now, after being removed from Kalki 2, the dominant view online is that she must reflect and change her approach if she wants to avoid further conflicts in the industry.
