Why Deepika Padukone Opted Out of Prabhas' Spirit & Kalki? Here's What The Actress Says

Deepika Padukone has transitioned from major film roles to empowering new talent in the film industry. She prioritises meaningful storytelling over commercial success and addresses industry burnout.

Deepika Padukone has indicated that money is not the factor alone to take up projects and said that her focus is now on empowering new talents.

In an interview, she stated, "Because honestly, how much more fame, how much more success, how much more money? At this stage, it's not about that anymore. It's not about the Rs 100-crore films, or even the Rs 500- Rs 600 crore ones. What excites me is empowering other talents. My team and I are now focused on that — enabling storytelling and supporting other creative minds, writers, directors, and even new producers. That's what feels meaningful to me now," she told Harper's Bazaar India.

Her comments come after she opted out of Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Spirit and Nag Ashwin's Kalki 2898 AD sequel. Reports suggest her request for an eight-hour workday as a new mother led to her exit from Spirit. Meanwhile, Vyajanthi Movies announced in September that Deepika was removed from the Kalki 2898 AD sequel due to an inability to establish a 'partnership’ with her despite previous collaborations.

Focus on Meaningful Projects

The actress has been involved in projects like Chhapaak and 83 through KA Productions. She selects films based on their messages rather than commercial potential. "Anything that doesn't feel true to me doesn't cut it. Sometimes people offer a lot of money and think that's enough, but it isn't. And the reverse is also true—some things may not be commercially big, but I believe in the people or the message, and I'll stand by it," she shared.

Deepika also addressed the issue of burnout in the film industry during her interview with Harper's Bazaar India. She highlighted how overworking has become normalised and equated with dedication. "We have normalised overworking. We mistake burnout for commitment. Eight hours of work a day is enough for the human body and mind. Only when you're healthy can you give your best. Bringing a burnt-out person back into the system helps no one," she said.

Current Projects

Currently, Deepika is filming King alongside Shah Rukh Khan under Siddharth Anand’s direction. The movie will also feature Suhana Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, and Jaideep Ahlawat.

Deepika Padukone’s recent statements reflect her evolving priorities within the film industry. Her focus on supporting emerging talents and choosing projects with meaningful messages marks a significant shift from traditional metrics of success such as box office earnings.