Rumors are swirling around Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s upcoming magnum opus Spirit, as reports suggest that veteran actor Prakash Raj has been dropped from the project. This follows high-profile departures already associated with the film, which stars Prabhas as a ruthless cop and Triptii Dimri as the female lead.
The news has sent shockwaves through the industry, especially since Prakash Raj’s commanding voiceover was a highlight of the film’s initial launch video, signaling a pivotal role in the narrative.
The Conflict: Script vs. Execution
According to reports from OTT Play, the exit stems from a breakdown in the working relationship between the actor and the director:
- Headed Disagreements: On the sets in Hyderabad, a “heated exchange” allegedly occurred between Vanga and Prakash Raj over the interpretation of a specific scene and script nuances.
- Behavioral Issues: Sources suggest the production team was unhappy with certain “behavioral issues” and the actor’s vocal stance on creative choices, leading to a mutual decision to part ways.
- Vanga’s Reputation: Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga is known for his rigid, uncompromising vision (as seen with Animal), which often clashes with veteran actors who prefer a more collaborative process.
A Pattern of Exits?
Prakash Raj is not the first high-profile name to leave the project. The film has seen significant cast shuffles since its announcement:
| Actor | Former Role | Reason for Exit | Replacement |
| Deepika Padukone | Lead Actress | Clashes over 8-hour workday demands & content disagreements. | Triptii Dimri |
| Prakash Raj | Pivotal Supporting | Creative differences & heated on-set arguments. | TBA (Rumors suggest Sathyaraj) |
Spirit: Movie Details & Release
Despite the casting hurdles, the film remains one of the most anticipated releases of 2026.
- The Plot: Prabhas reportedly plays an “honest yet volatile” police officer in a gritty, dark world.
- Release Date: March 5, 2026.
- Music: Harshavardhan Rameshwar (of Animal and Arjun Reddy fame).
- Current Status: The team is currently filming intense action sequences in Hyderabad using high-speed “Phantom” cameras for a unique visual style.