# Spirit film casting and contract dispute developments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/spirit-film-casting-developments
> Updated: 2026-08-20T16:51:02.000Z. Sources: 18. Developments: 4.

By late August 2026, the casting dispute surrounding the film ‘Spirit’ intensified following new claims from producer Pranay Reddy Vanga. The producer revealed that negotiations with Deepika Padukone lasted approximately 18 months but ultimately collapsed due to disagreements over remuneration, shooting schedules, and working hours. 

Specifically, the producer alleged that Padukone’s team requested a ‘10 percent share of the film’s profits’ in addition to her salary, a demand deemed ‘not feasible given the film’s budget’. Furthermore, the production team claimed that confidential details regarding the film’s story and characters were leaked after they began exploring alternative casting options.

Contradicting these claims, a report from Hindustan Times suggested a different narrative, stating that Padukone met with the director only once and never received a full narration of the script, implying the project was never fully under consideration by the actress. 

Tripti Dimri has since been confirmed as the female lead. The film, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and starring Prabhas, is currently slated for a March 2027 release. While the production team recently shared a behind-the-scenes photo to honor actor Chiranjeevi for his birthday, they clarified he will not be part of the cast.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-20: Deepika Padukone's exit from 'Spirit' attributed to profit-share demands

Producer Pranay Reddy Vanga claims Deepika Padukone exited the film ‘Spirit’ due to demands for a 10% profit share and scheduling conflicts, alongside allegations of story leaks.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/deepika-padukone-exits-prabhas-film-spirit-over-contract-disputes

### 2026-07-25: Prabhas' 'Spirit' Eyes Rs 300‑400 Cr Pre‑Release Business Amid Casting Rumors

Prabhas‑Vanga’s upcoming film ‘Spirit’ is projected to secure Rs 300‑400 crore in pre‑release trade, with distributors locking territories, while casting talks note Deepika Padukone’s exit, Tripti Dimri as lead

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/prabhas-spirit-draws-rs-300400-cr-prerelease-trade-as-casting-rumors-surface

### 2026-07-25: Katrina Kaif rumored for cameo in Prabhas' Telugu film 'Spirit

Katrina Kaif is being reported as under consideration for a brief but pivotal cameo in Prabhas' upcoming Telugu drama 'Spirit', which would be her return to Telugu cinema after two decades; no official comment.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/katrina-kaif-rumored-for-cameo-in-prabhas-telugu-film-spirit

### 2026-07-22: Katrina Kaif considered for role in Prabhas‑Triptii Dimri film 'Spirit' after Deepika Padukone exits

Katrina Kaif is rumored to join Prabhas‑Triptii Dimri’s film 'Spirit' after Deepika Padukone’s reported exit, though neither the makers nor Kaif have confirmed the casting.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/katrina-kaif-considered-for-role-in-prabhastriptii-dimri-film-spirit-after-deepika-padukone-exits

---
Cite as: Spirit film casting and contract dispute developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/spirit-film-casting-developments