• Source:JND
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Deepika Padukone has been in the headlines, especially amid the ongoing debate around her demand for an 8-hour work shift. Adding fuel to that, the makers of Kalki 2898 AD recently announced her exit from the film’s sequel, citing that a project like this 'deserves commitment', a move that sparked further controversy. Now, Piku director Shoojit Sircar has come out in support of Deepika, praising her work ethic. He stated, "she's just brilliant as a professional actor."

Shoojit Sircar was speaking at the special session at FICCI Frames 2025, where he was asked about Deepika dropping out of two major pan-India films- Kalki 2 and Spirit. Reacting to the ongoing debate, he said, "I respect every individual's subjective decisions for what they do. I respect what...I don't know what the whole story is all about."

When asked about Deepika's demand for an 8-hour shift, the filmmaker stated, "That's fine, we should be respecting an individual's boundaries. So, uski poori respect karni chaiye. Main karta hoon."

Praising Deepika's professionalism, Sircar shared, "Brilliant, she's just brilliant as a professional actor. She's brilliant."

Following Deepika's exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Spirit starring Prabhas, her removal from the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD, raised questions about her professionalism.

The makers of Kalki 2 post read, "This is to officially announce that @deepikapadukone will not be a part of the upcoming sequel of #Kalki2898AD. After careful consideration, We have decided to part ways. Despite the long journey of making the first film, we were unable to find a partnership. And a film like @Kalki2898AD deserves that commitment and much more. We wish her the best with her future works."

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According to several media reports, Deepika had already shot for 20 days for the sequel. She had reportedly demanded a 25 per cent hike for the Kalki 2, citing her character's popularity following the original film's success.

ALSO READ: Deepika Padukone Shot 20 Days For Kalki 2898 AD Sequel Before Exit, Debunking Date Clash Claims | Report

Meanwhile, Deepika, who welcomed her first child, daughter Dua, with husband and actor Ranveer Singh in 2024, has been balancing both motherhood and her work. She is gearing up for Shah Rukh Khan starrer King.

She is also set to appear in a Pan-India film, tentatively titled AA22xA6, co-starring Allu Arjun and directed by Atlee.