Deepika Padukone had an eventful 2025. She began the year as the lead in two upcoming pan-India films and will conclude it in the same manner. It`s merely that the films under consideration have changed. Her public feud with Sandeep Reddy Vanga and departure from his film Spirit were followed by the actor`s removal from Nag Ashwin`s Kalki 2898 AD sequel.
Deepika Padukone on why big-budget films don`t excite her
Deepika has claimed in a new interview that she is no longer interested in big-budget projects and is instead focusing on storytelling. “Because honestly, how much more celebrity, success, and money do you want? At this point, that is no longer relevant.” In an interview with Harper`s Bazaar India, Deepika stated that it is not about making films worth Rs 100 crore or even Rs 500-Rs 600 crore.
When the reporter pointed out that she has `ticked all those boxes anyway`, the actor remarked, “And that doesn`t thrill me anymore. What fascinates me is empowering other people`s talents. My team and I are now focused on allowing storytelling and assisting other creative minds, including writers, directors, and new producers. That`s what is meaningful to me right now.”
Deepika Padukone reacts to the stipulated work-hours debate
Beyond her own acting career, Deepika has been focusing her efforts on promoting newer creative talents. After producing films such as Chhapaak for KA Productions, she is now more inclined to support stories rather than lead them.
“I am excited about encouraging other people`s talents. My team and I are now focused on allowing storytelling and assisting other creative minds, including writers, directors, and new producers. “That`s what feels meaningful to me right now,” she explained.
Her stance is part of a larger commentary on industry labour culture, including the glorifying of weariness. “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 told the magazine.
Earlier this year, it was reported that Deepika was fired from Spirit, which stars Prabhas, after demanding an 8-hour work shift as a new mother, among other things. Triptii Dimri has replaced her in the film. Deepika will not appear in the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD, which was announced in August by its producers. Nag Ashwin`s 2024 blockbuster also stars Prabhas and Amitabh Bachchan.
Deepika still has two major projects scheduled for release. She is once again teaming with Shah Rukh Khan for King, a Siddharth Anand film that also stars Suhana Khan. She will then appear with Allu Arjun in Atlee`s untitled flick. King will be released in 2026, with the tentatively titled AA22xA6 following in 2027.