Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone has finally stepped into the spotlight following her unexpected exit from the much-anticipated film Spirit, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. The actress, who has recently made headlines for stepping away from the project, made her first public appearance at a high-profile Cartier event in Stockholm.

During a candid backstage conversation with Harper’s Bazaar, Deepika offered a rare glimpse into how she navigates professional turbulence. Without directly naming the Spirit controversy, she subtly addressed her recent decision by stating, “I go with what feels right instinctively. It’s not always easy, but when I block out the external noise and follow my intuition, the answers become clear.”


She emphasized her desire to work with teams that bring joy and positivity, adding, “I only want to collaborate with people I know I’ll enjoy working with. Being around close friends and family and staying true to who I am helps me stay balanced.”


Her remarks come at a time when social media is buzzing with speculation. Many online users interpreted her comments as a calm response to director Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s recent social media post, where he indirectly criticized her professionalism. The filmmaker, without naming Deepika, accused a leading actress of trying to sideline a younger co-star, manipulating the storyline, and engaging in manipulative PR tactics.


According to multiple reports, Deepika parted ways with the film over creative differences, particularly issues related to remuneration and working conditions. Not long after her exit, the production team officially confirmed that Animal (2023) actress Triptii Dimri will step into the lead role originally intended for Deepika.


As the buzz around Spirit continues to grow, Deepika’s poised and thoughtful comments have drawn both support and admiration. While the controversy lingers, her message of staying true to oneself and prioritizing happiness at work resonates deeply with fans and industry insiders alike.


This incident marks another chapter in Deepika Padukone’s journey of making mindful career choices, reinforcing her image as not just a global icon, but also a woman of clarity and conviction.