Filmmaker Kabir Khan has come out in support of Deepika Padukone in the ongoing controversy involving director Sandeep Reddy Vanga. The row began after Padukone, who was initially signed as the leading lady opposite Prabhas in Vanga’s upcoming directorial Spirit, walked out of the project. She was later replaced by Animal actress Triptii Dimri.
Kabir Khan backs Deepika Padukone amid Sandeep Reddy Vanga row over work schedule and pay parity
According to reports, Deepika Padukone’s decision was triggered by the director’s refusal to accommodate her post-motherhood working conditions, which included an 8-hour workday and other professional requirements. The development has since sparked a widespread debate within the film industry, with many voicing their opinions on the matter.
Lending his voice to the conversation, director Kabir Khan, known for films like Bajrangi Bhaijaan and 83, told Movified that Padukone’s demands were completely reasonable and in line with industry norms followed by several male actors. “Aamir Khan works on an 8-hour shift. Akshay Kumar too. So, I don’t see why Deepika should be denied the same,” he stated.
Khan further emphasized that if a filmmaker disagrees with such requests, there should be a logical and professional justification behind it. “If a filmmaker doesn’t agree, they should have a valid reason. It’s that simple,” he said, highlighting the importance of open and respectful dialogue in the creative process.
The conversation also touched upon the issue of pay parity and star power. Defending Deepika’s position as one of Indian cinema’s biggest crowd-pullers, Khan added, “Whoever brings in the viewers, whether it’s an actor, director, man or woman… they deserve to be paid what they’re worth. Deepika consistently pulls crowds, so she rightly commands the fee she does.”
The Spirit fallout has put the spotlight on working conditions for female actors, especially those returning to work post-motherhood. While some from the film fraternity have empathized with the pressures faced by directors like Vanga while mounting large-scale projects, others argue that respect for personal boundaries and professionalism should never be compromised.
With more industry voices like Kabir Khan’s stepping forward, the debate is likely to continue shaping future discussions around work ethics, gender parity, and structural change in Indian cinema.
More Pages: Spirit Box Office Collection
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