Laxmi Parvathi in Mee Inti Vanta

Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga and actress Deepika Padukone’s ongoing dispute has become a hot topic in Bollywood circles in recent weeks. According to reports, Deepika was approached for Vanga’s upcoming film Spirit, but the collaboration fell apart due to disagreements over her remuneration and work conditions. Deepika reportedly demanded ₹25 crore as her fee along with an 8-hour work schedule. As the makers couldn’t meet these conditions, she eventually opted out of the project.

Following this, Sandeep Reddy Vanga indirectly accused a leading actress of spreading negative publicity about his film and its storyline, leading many to believe that his comments were aimed at Deepika.

Amidst this controversy, several Bollywood celebrities have weighed in, with most extending their support to Deepika. Actors like Ajay Devgn and Kajol openly backed her, and now, director Kabir Khan has also defended Deepika’s stance. Known for films like Ek Tha Tiger, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, and 83, Kabir Khan stated that even top male actors like Aamir Khan and Akshay Kumar work 8-hour shifts, so it’s only fair that Deepika is allowed the same.

In a recent interview, Kabir questioned why only female actors face such scrutiny for setting work-hour limits. He further added that when it comes to remuneration, it should always be based on star power and the actor’s ability to pull audiences to theatres. “Whoever brings the crowd — whether it’s an actor, actress, or director — deserves to be paid accordingly,” Kabir concluded.