The Bollywood rumor mill is buzzing, and the names Deepika Padukone, Sandeep Reddy Vanga, and Triptii Dimri are at the heart of it. Their rumored collaboration on the upcoming action drama Spirit has sparked heated debates across social media, with industry insiders and fans divided. Is this trio set to deliver a blockbuster, or is their partnership a recipe for controversy? Let’s dive into the Spirit controversy, exploring why Deepika Padukone and Triptii Dimri’s involvement with Sandeep Reddy Vanga is raising eyebrows and igniting reactions.
The Spirit Project starring Prabhas: A High-Stakes Collaboration
Spirit, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, is one of Bollywood’s most anticipated films, slated for a 2026 release. Starring Prabhas as a fierce cop, the film promises Vanga’s signature high-octane action and intense storytelling. Rumors suggest Deepika Padukone, a global icon and producer via Ka Productions, is either starring as the female lead or backing the project. Triptii Dimri, fresh off her breakout role in Vanga’s Animal (2023), is also rumored to join the cast, adding fuel to the hype—and the controversy.
Sandeep Reddy Vanga, known for Arjun Reddy (2017), Kabir Singh (2019), and Animal, has a polarizing track record. His films, while commercially successful, have been criticized for glorifying toxic masculinity, excessive violence, and misogynistic themes. Animal, co-produced by Deepika’s Ka Productions, grossed over ₹900 crore globally but faced backlash for its portrayal of gender dynamics. Now, with Spirit in pre-production, the involvement of Deepika Padukone and Triptii Dimri has sparked a fresh wave of debate.
Why the Controversy? Deepika Padukone and Triptii Dimri’s Bold Choices
Deepika Padukone is Bollywood’s reigning queen, celebrated for films like Padmaavat (2018) and Bajirao Mastani (2015). Beyond acting, she’s a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment and mental health through her Live Love Laugh Foundation. Her decision to collaborate with Vanga, whose films often clash with progressive values, has left fans and critics puzzled. Social media platforms like X are abuzz with questions: Why would Deepika, a symbol of empowerment, align with a director known for controversial narratives?
Triptii Dimri, dubbed the “national crush” after her role as Zoya in Animal, is another focal point. Her performance in Animal earned praise, but the film’s problematic themes drew scrutiny. Triptii’s rumored role in Spirit has reignited debates about her choice to work with Vanga again. Is she capitalizing on her newfound fame, or risking her reputation by doubling down on Vanga’s vision?
Industry Reactions: A Divided Bollywood
The Spirit controversy has not gone unnoticed in Bollywood. Industry figures have taken to X to voice their opinions, reflecting a split between support and criticism.
- Swara Bhasker’s Critique: In a February 2025 X post, actress Swara Bhasker called out Deepika’s rumored involvement, stating, “Deepika Padukone in #Spirit with Sandeep Reddy Vanga? Her empowerment advocacy feels at odds with Vanga’s toxic narratives.” The post included a collage contrasting Deepika at an empowerment event with a Spirit poster featuring Prabhas, highlighting the ideological clash.
- Kangana Ranaut’s Outrage: Kangana Ranaut, known for her unfiltered opinions, posted in February 2025: “#Spirit with Deepika and Vanga is a letdown. Her fans expect her to uplift, not endorse problematic cinema.” Accompanied by a news screenshot about Deepika and Triptii’s involvement, Kangana’s post fueled the debate, urging fans to question their choices.
- Taran Adarsh’s Trade Perspective: Trade analyst Taran Adarsh took a neutral stance in a January 2025 post, noting, “#Spirit: Prabhas, Deepika Padukone (rumored), and Triptii Dimri create massive buzz. But Vanga’s style sparks debate.” His post, paired with a Spirit teaser poster, focused on the film’s box office potential while acknowledging the controversy.
These reactions underscore the divide: some see Spirit as a commercial juggernaut, while others view Deepika and Triptii’s involvement as a misstep. The lack of posts from supporters like Anurag Kashyap, who praised Animal, suggests caution, as Spirit remains in pre-production with unconfirmed casting.
The Social Media Storm: Fans and Critics Weigh In
On X, fans are split. Some defend Deepika Padukone and Triptii Dimri, arguing that actors and producers should explore diverse roles and genres. “Deepika’s a professional; she can separate art from advocacy,” one user posted. Others back Triptii, citing her versatility in films like Bulbbul (2020) and Qala (2022). However, critics are vocal, with posts like, “Triptii Dimri in another Vanga film? Why glorify toxicity?” trending alongside hashtags like #SpiritControversy and #BoycottSpirit.
Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s own statements add fuel to the fire. In a 2024 interview, he defended his filmmaking, saying, “I make films for real emotions, not agendas.” Such remarks have intensified scrutiny on Deepika and Triptii, with fans questioning whether their involvement endorses Vanga’s worldview.
What’s at Stake for Deepika, Triptii, and Vanga?
For Deepika Padukone, Spirit could be a high-risk, high-reward move. A successful collaboration with Vanga and Prabhas could solidify Ka Productions’ clout, but backlash could dent her progressive image. Triptii Dimri, still building her career, faces a similar gamble: another hit with Vanga could cement her A-list status, but association with controversial themes might alienate fans. For Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Spirit is a chance to prove his critics wrong—or double down on his polarizing style.
The Road Ahead for Spirit
As Spirit moves toward production, the controversy shows no signs of fading. Will Deepika Padukone and Triptii Dimri’s involvement redefine their careers, or will Vanga’s vision spark another Animal-style backlash? With Prabhas leading the charge, the film is poised for massive box office potential, but its success hinges on navigating the ideological storm.
What do you think? Is Spirit a bold cinematic leap or a step too far for Deepika and Triptii? Share your thoughts below, and stay tuned for updates on this explosive Bollywood saga.