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2026-08-21 07:33 UTC → 2026-08-22 13:05 UTC ·
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In By late July August 2026, reports emerged that Deepika Padukone had left the upcoming pan‑India film ‘Spirit’, prompting speculation that actress Katrina Kaif might be approached for a brief but pivotal cameo. The film, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and starring Prabhas, was also said to be considering new casting options. A few days later, trade analysts highlighted strong pre‑release business interest, projecting Rs 300‑400 crore in theatrical deals and aiming for a worldwide gross of at least Rs 800 crore. Tripti Dimri was confirmed as the female lead, marking her debut in a major South Indian production, while rumors about Katrina Kaif’s cameo persisted, though neither party had confirmed involvement. Later in the same week, media reports reiterated that Katrina Kaif is being vetted for a short but important cameo—her first appearance in Telugu cinema since the early 2000s titles ‘Malliswari’ and ‘Allari Pidugu’. The speculation follows Vanga’s strongly‑worded social‑media comment about a breach of trust, widely interpreted as referring to dispute surrounding the Deepika Padukone fallout, though no official statements were issued. By August 2026, film ‘Spirit’ intensified following new claims from producer Pranay Reddy Vanga provided clarity on the casting change, stating Vanga. The producer revealed that Padukone’s departure stemmed from negotiations with Deepika Padukone lasted approximately 18 months but ultimately collapsed due to disagreements over commercial remuneration, shooting schedules, and practical terms. working hours. Specifically, the producer claimed alleged that Padukone’s team requested a ‘10 percent share of the film’s profits’ in addition to standard remuneration, alongside disputes regarding shooting schedules and working hours. While Padukone has not confirmed her salary, a demand deemed ‘not feasible given the specific profit-sharing claim, film’s budget’. Furthermore, the production team maintains claimed that confidential details regarding the film’s story and characters were leaked after they began exploring alternative casting options. Contradicting these negotiations led to her replacement 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. On August 20, 2026, Pranay Dimri has since been confirmed as the female lead. The film, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga added that while Padukone had shown interest in the script and starring Prabhas, is currently slated for over a year, negotiations stalled because March 2027 release. While the profit-sharing demand was ‘not feasible given 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 film’s budget’. cast.