Deepika Padukone has found herself at the center of industry conversations again, following reports that she has been removed from Spirit, the upcoming film by Sandeep Reddy Vanga starring Prabhas. The decision reportedly came after the actress, now a new mother, made specific demands including a substantial remuneration of over ₹20 crore and an 8-hour workday. While this development stirred buzz online, a resurfaced interview with Neha Dhupia has added a compelling layer to the story—one that highlights Deepika’s lasting impact on her peers.
Neha recalled a moment from her past conversation with Ananya Panday, who had spoken about what she learned from Deepika during the filming of Gehraiyaan. “Maine ek baar Ananya se sawal kiya tha, ‘What’s the point where you’ll never settle in life? Like, you’ll never settle for anything less than what you have.’ So, usne mereko bataya tha ki jab voh Gehraiyaan ke liye shoot kar rahi thi, she was shooting with Deepika,” Neha shared.
She went on to explain how Ananya was deeply influenced by Deepika’s sense of self-assurance on set. “Deepika ko jab apna shot chahiye ya phir apne baal ek tareeke ke chahiye ya phir apni line thoda waqt le ke yaad karna hai ya director ko bolna hai ‘I want another take’, she always… What Ananya learnt from her was that ask for what your right is, and as an actor, on set, that is your right.”
Neha concluded by admiring how this perspective not only changed Ananya’s approach but also influenced her own. “Sab ho jaata hai. Yeh nahi ki light ja rahi hai ya… haan, aap apni lines yaad karke aao, aap time par aao. Voh sab karo. Par uske baad, the process, enjoy it and don’t let go till you’re fully satisfied. It was so nice to hear that from Ananya because she was like, Deepika ko dekh ke usne voh seekha. After Ananya said that, even I was like, you know, this is it. If I want to do a fun interview, then I will be here and do that fun interview.”
While Deepika’s departure from Spirit has reportedly led to Triptii Dimri stepping into the lead role at a much lower fee, the unfolding narrative paints a larger picture. Beyond contract negotiations, Deepika’s legacy continues to influence how younger actresses navigate the industry—assertively, thoughtfully, and with a firm grip on their professional boundaries.
