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Deepika Padukone Exits ‘Spirit’ and Might Also Leave ‘Kalki 2

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KKN Gurugram Desk | Deepika Padukone’s priorities have significantly changed ever since she became a mother. A few days ago, news surfaced that she had exited the film Spirit, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, starring Prabhas in the lead role. Now, new reports suggest that Deepika could also be leaving the highly anticipated film Kalki 2, where Prabhas is again her co-star.

This comes as a surprise to many as Deepika was initially supposed to have a major role in both films. But the reason for her potential exit from these projects appears to stem from her changing priorities and the demands that have come with motherhood.

Let’s explore the reasons behind Deepika’s possible exit from both these films, the impact of her decision, and what might lie ahead for the actress as she adjusts to her new life as a mother.

Deepika Padukone’s Priorities Shift After Becoming a Mother

Since welcoming her child, Deepika Padukone’s career priorities have naturally shifted. The actress, who has always been known for her dedication and passion for her craft, now places her family and her role as a mother above her professional commitments. This transition is something that has been apparent in recent news about her film choices and on-set preferences.

As a mother, Deepika is reportedly asking for shorter working hours. Her demand for more flexible schedules and reduced working hours has led to some friction on the sets, especially with demanding roles in films like Spirit and Kalki 2.

This shift in priorities is not only a personal change but also a professional one, as it affects the dynamics between her and filmmakers who have certain expectations from her as a lead actress.

Exit from ‘Spirit’ – What Happened?

One of the most talked-about departures recently was Deepika Padukone’s exit from the film Spirit, which was being helmed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. The movie was set to star Prabhas alongside Deepika, and fans were eagerly anticipating their on-screen chemistry. However, news came to light that Deepika had been removed from the film, with Sandeep Reddy Vanga citing issues regarding her demand for shorter working hours.

According to reports, Deepika had asked to work for only 8 hours a day, a request that reportedly clashed with the film’s schedule and the demands of the shooting timeline. In addition, sources claimed that Deepika had also demanded a share of the film’s profits, which Sandeep was apparently not comfortable with. The director expressed his dissatisfaction with Deepika’s requests publicly, even calling her out on social media.

Sandeep, while addressing the situation on his social media platform, said, “When I share my story with an actor, I trust them completely. We had an agreement, but this behavior shows who you really are. Is this your version of feminism? I don’t think you’ll ever understand.” His comments shed light on the disagreements between the filmmaker and the actress, and it seemed that the differences were not easy to resolve.

Why Deepika Might Be Leaving ‘Kalki 2’

Just as the news of Deepika’s exit from Spirit was making waves, fresh reports emerged suggesting that she might also be leaving Kalki 2, a film where Prabhas plays her co-star once again.

According to reports from Bollywood Movie Instagram, Deepika’s demands for reduced working hours, following her new responsibilities as a mother, have caused friction on the Kalki 2 set as well. Although there is no official confirmation regarding this, insiders claim that the makers of Kalki 2 are cutting down her role due to these logistical challenges.

The adjustment to motherhood has led to a fundamental change in Deepika’s work ethic, as she is prioritizing her family over the intensity that typically comes with being a lead actress in high-budget films. It is not uncommon for actresses, after having children, to reassess their professional commitments and choose projects that align more with their current personal and family life.

Deepika’s Growing Influence and Support for Feminism

Despite the controversies surrounding her professional commitments, Deepika has long been an advocate for women’s rights and feminism. Her actions, including speaking out against the portrayal of women in cinema and advocating for better treatment for women in the industry, have positioned her as one of the most powerful voices in Bollywood. However, her decision to step back from demanding roles is being scrutinized as possibly contradictory to the ideals she stands for.

Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s sharp comments about Deepika’s actions have raised questions about the intersection of feminism and professionalism in the film industry. While some critics argue that her demands for shorter hours are an understandable part of her personal life, others believe it could be seen as a clash between career aspirations and personal life choices.

For Deepika, the decision to adjust her work schedule post-motherhood is undoubtedly a balancing act. She is navigating the fine line between maintaining her public image as a feminist icon and fulfilling her responsibilities as a mother.

What’s Next for Deepika Padukone?

With Deepika Padukone’s recent departures from major films like Spirit and the possible exit from Kalki 2, the question arises: what does this mean for her career going forward?

Deepika has had an illustrious career, with major hits such as Padmaavat, Chhapaak, Piku, and more. Her performances have garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. Her stepping back from some of her high-profile roles may only be a temporary pause to allow her to focus on family life and personal growth.

Her future projects may shift toward films that allow for more flexibility, or roles that suit her current priorities as a mother. It is likely that Deepika will continue to choose roles that allow her to balance her family and career in a way that suits her new chapter in life. Additionally, she could become more involved in production, where she can play a more active role in selecting projects that align with her values and time constraints.

The Importance of Family and Career Balance for Women in Bollywood

Deepika’s story brings attention to the challenges that many women in the film industry face when balancing career aspirations with family responsibilities. Bollywood, like many other industries, often places women in a position where they are expected to choose between professional success and personal life. Deepika Padukone, as a successful actress and a mother, is navigating these challenges with grace, and her choices reflect the growing importance of family-friendly policies and understanding in the entertainment industry.

Many actresses have spoken out about the pressures they face after becoming mothers, and Deepika’s decisions may help spark further discussions about the need for better support systems for women who want to pursue both a successful career and a fulfilling family life.

As Deepika Padukone moves into a new phase of her life, where family comes first, her career trajectory is likely to take on a different direction. While her potential exit from both Spirit and Kalki 2 has raised some eyebrows, it’s important to acknowledge that her decisions reflect broader issues surrounding work-life balance for women in the film industry.

Deepika’s exit from these high-profile projects doesn’t indicate the end of her career but rather a shift in her professional path as she continues to evolve both as a woman and a mother. Fans and industry insiders alike will be watching to see what choices Deepika makes in the coming years, and how her evolving role as a mother influences her career choices.

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