The controversy surrounding actress Deepika Padukone’s exit from director Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s much-awaited film ‘Spirit’ has resurfaced, with fresh claims emerging from Pranay Reddy Vanga, the director’s brother and a producer associated with the project. While Deepika’s reported demand for an eight-hour shooting shift had earlier been cited as the reason for her departure, Pranay has claimed that the primary disagreement was actually over remuneration and a share in the film’s profits.

According to Pranay, Sandeep Reddy Vanga had been in discussions with Deepika about the project for nearly 18 months and was keen to have her on board. In a recent interview, Pranay claimed that Deepika had sought a 10 per cent share of the film’s profits. He said negotiations subsequently failed to progress, prompting the team to explore other options.

Pranay further alleged that after the team began considering alternatives, certain details related to the film’s storyline and characters were leaked. He said discussions between the actress and the filmmakers regarding the story and her character were private and confidential, and that the public disclosure of such information had caused considerable concern within the team.

He also clarified that the dispute was not merely about an additional fee of Rs. 5-6 crore. Earlier, reports had sparked considerable discussion over Deepika’s alleged condition of working only eight hours per day. Sandeep Reddy Vanga had also expressed his displeasure on social media, without naming anyone, over the alleged disclosure of confidential information concerning the cast and the film.

Following Deepika’s exit from the project, the makers reportedly cast Triptii Dimri in the lead role. However, Deepika Padukone has not issued any official response to these latest allegations so far.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar