Deepika Padukone Breaks Silence on Exiting Spirit and Kalki
After weeks of speculation, Deepika Padukone has finally opened up about stepping away from Spirit and the Kalki 2898 AD sequel.
Earlier, reports claimed that Deepika was replaced in Prabhas’ upcoming film Spirit, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, due to her preferred working hours — with Tripti Dimri stepping into the role. Soon after, similar news surfaced about Kalki 2898 AD 2, where Deepika, who played a crucial role in the first part, was expected to return but eventually opted out. The makers cited “commitment issues” as the reason, marking the end of their association.
For a while, Deepika stayed silent despite heavy speculation, but she finally addressed the matter in a recent interview.
Deepika Padukone Breaks Silence on Exiting Spirit and Kalki
Without naming anyone, Deepika said, “It’s no secret that many male actors work eight hours a day, Monday to Friday, and don’t shoot on weekends. Now, more women — including mothers — are doing the same, yet it somehow becomes news when we do it.”
She also reflected on the ongoing challenges women face in the industry. “I’ve dealt with such things throughout my career. Whether it’s about pay or working conditions, I’ve faced everything quietly. I don’t believe in creating noise about it.”
Deepika added, “Sometimes these issues become public, which isn’t something I seek. I handle them in my own way — calmly and with dignity.”
On the professional front, Deepika is set to reunite with Shah Rukh Khan in King, directed by Siddharth Anand.
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