Sandeep Reddy Vanga Breaks Silence on Deepika Padukone and Spirit Rumors
What started as quiet whispers on social media exploded when a cryptic tweet from Sandeep strongly hinted at betrayal and unethical conduct by a former collaborator widely believed to be Deepika. Though he didn’t name anyone directly, the message left little to the imagination. “When I narrate a story to an actor, I place 100% faith. There is an unsaid NDA between us. But by doing this, 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 added in Hindi, “Aisa karo… Agli baar poori kahani bolna… kyunki mujhe jarra bhi farak nahi padtha. #dirtyPRgames. I like this kahawat very much: ‘खुंदक में बिल्ली खंबा नोचे’.”
Sources say that Deepika’s exit from Spirit was due to disagreements over work hours and pay. Reportedly, Deepika requested a reduced 6-hour shoot schedule, a profit share, full payment, and that her personal team’s salaries be covered by the producers. The team allegedly considered these demands unreasonable, especially as production scale and timelines were being finalized. Post-exit, rumors began surfacing that Deepika’s PR team was spreading misinformation, including claims that the film was “A-rated” and packed with bold scenes. It was also alleged that she leaked details of the script and involved Tripti Dimri’s role in negative light, despite filming not yet having started.
The addition of Tripti Dimri, one of the most promising young talents in Indian cinema, was reportedly not well-received by Deepika’s camp, leading to further behind-the-scenes tension. Sandeep’s tweet appears to defend Tripti while calling out the attempts to downplay her involvement.
This isn’t the first time Sandeep Vanga has been involved in controversy. Known for his unapologetically intense storytelling (Arjun Reddy, Kabir Singh), the director is often a polarizing figure. But his recent post signals zero tolerance for unethical conduct, even when it involves Bollywood’s top talent. Insiders claim that despite the ongoing chatter, Sandeep remains focused and unshaken, continuing work on Spirit, which is being pitched as a gritty, action-heavy thriller and Prabhas’ next major theatrical event after Salaar and Kalki 2898 AD.
So far, there’s been no official statement from Deepika Padukone or her team, though many anticipate a clarification or legal response if the rumors escalate. Whether this PR battle turns uglier or dies down, Spirit has now gained even more attention for better or worse. One thing is clear: Sandeep Reddy Vanga isn’t backing down, and he’s made it known that creative integrity will not be sacrificed not even for Bollywood royalty.
