9 PM | ETV Telugu News | 28th December “2025

Speculation gained momentum after the makers recently unveiled the first look of Vivek Oberoi from the film. Observers noticed that Prakash Raj’s username was not tagged in the promotional posts on X (formerly Twitter). Interestingly, his tag had already disappeared from updates as early as December. While he was tagged in the muhurtham photos shared in November, at least half a dozen subsequent updates did not include him. Given the consistency, it seems unlikely to be an oversight.

Earlier, Prakash Raj had dismissed reports claiming that a scuffle took place between him and director Sandeep Reddy Vanga on the sets. He clarified that he had not even participated in the shoot at that point. Many interpreted his clarification as a denial of his exit from the project, but in reality, he only refuted the rumours about an on-set clash.

Now, fresh buzz in Filmnagar suggests a different reason behind his reported exit. According to circulating rumours, Sandeep Vanga allegedly requested Prakash Raj to refrain from making controversial public comments or giving politically sensitive interviews until the release of Spirit, as his outspoken views could potentially impact the film. However, Prakash Raj is said to have declined, reportedly maintaining that his personal opinions are separate from his professional commitments.

Some unverified sources even claim that the discussion turned tense, with allegations that Prakash Raj accused the director of bias. Eventually, the two are said to have parted ways amicably.

Attempts to get an official clarification from the production team have so far been unsuccessful, as they remain unavailable or unwilling to comment.

Until an official confirmation is made, the exact reason behind Prakash Raj’s absence from Spirit remains speculative.