Why Deepika Padukone Walked Away From Mega Budget Films Like Spirit And Kalki 2: 'Even Rs 500-600 Crore…'

Deepika Padukone claims she is reevaluating what success means to her after over ten years of directing high-profile movies and producing some of the highest-grossing Hindi films. The actor stated in a recent interview with Harper's Bazaar that the benchmarks that used to determine stardom—high-value signings and box office achievements—no longer have the same appeal.

Deepika Padukone said in an interview with Harper's Bazaar that she is now more interested in storytelling than big-budget movies. "Because honestly, how much more fame, how much more success, how much more money? At this stage, it’s not about that anymore. It’s not about the Rs 100-crore films, or even the Rs 500- 600 crore ones."

Deepika Padukone revealed that her motivations have changed dramatically. The actor has been using her platform more and more to promote equal pay and fair working hours in the industry. "Anything that doesn't feel true to me doesn't cut it. Sometimes people offer a lot of money and think that's enough, but it isn't. And the reverse is also true-some things may not be commercially big, but I believe in the people or the message, and I'll stand by it," she added.

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Deepika is increasingly directing her focus to supporting up-and-coming creative voices outside of her own acting career. After producing movies like Chhapaak under KA Productions, she is now more interested in supporting narratives than just directing them. She added, "And that doesn’t excite me anymore. What excites me is empowering other talent. My team and I are now focused on that—enabling storytelling and supporting other creative minds, writers, directors, and even new producers. That’s what feels meaningful to me now."

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Deepika Padukone, one of the highest-paid female actors in India, has boldly redefined success—from box office numbers to emotional honesty and long-term sustainability—by turning away from financial temptation.

Deepika Padukone EXITS Spirit And Kalki 2

Deepika Padukone was fired from Spirit, starring Prabhas, for a variety of reasons, including demanding an 8-hour work shift as a new mother. Triptii Dimri has taken her place in the movie. The producers of Kalki 2898 AD confirmed in August that Deepika will not appear in the follow-up. The big-budget pan-India release also stars Prabhas and Amitabh Bachchan.

The actor still has two major movies scheduled for release. For King, the Siddharth Anand directorial starring Abhishek Bachchan, Suhana Khan, Abhay Verma and many more, she is once again collaborating with Shah Rukh Khan. Deepika Padukone will then appear in Atlee's untitled movie with Allu Arjun. The tentatively titled AA22xA6 will be released in 2027, while King will be released on screens in 2026.