Why Deepika Padukone walked away from mega films? ‘Money isn’t enough anymore’ for King actress!

Actress Deepika Padukone has sparked conversations across the industry after stepping away from two massive upcoming projects- Nag Ashwin's Kalki 2898 AD sequel and Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit. The actress revealed that even the grandest budgets can’t lure her anymore, stressing that her priorities as an artist have transformed.

Related Story: Deepika Padukone pushes for new-mother support, defends 8-hour shifts after exit from Spirit, Kalki 2898 AD Sequel

Deepika's Exit From Big-Budget Spectacles

During her recent Harper’s Bazaar interview, she revealed, “At this stage, it’s not about that anymore. It’s not about the Rs 100-crore films, or even the Rs 500-Rs 600 crore ones.”

Deepika shared that she is no longer driven by the scale of a film but by the value it adds creatively and personally.

Championing Fresh Voices & Meaningful Stories

Deepika, who has produced films like Chhapaak and 83 under KA Productions, says she finds true fulfilment in nurturing new storytellers. What excites her today is not the next record-breaking spectacle but the opportunity to elevate new writers, directors, and producers. She emphasised that trusting her instinct remains central to her choices.

“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 said.

Why Deepika Now Chooses Health Over Hustle?

Deepika also called out Bollywood’s draining work culture and spoke strongly in favour of healthier schedules.

“We have normalised overworking. We mistake burnout for commitment. Eight hours of work a day is enough for the human body and mind. Only when you’re healthy can you give your best. Bringing a burnt-out person back into the system helps no one,” she stated.

Reports suggest that her insistence on equal pay and an eight-hour workday played a key role in her decision to leave Spirit and Kalki 2898 AD.

A Journey Toward Clarity

Reflecting on her evolution, Deepika admitted that this clarity wasn’t always present.

“Was I always this clear? Maybe not. But I’ve reached that clarity now… Maybe 10 years from now, I’ll question some of today’s choices. But right now, they feel honest,” she said. 

Even as she steps away from two major films, Deepika is readying for another high-profile reunion with Shah Rukh Khan in King, adding another chapter to their celebrated on-screen partnership. Moreover, she also has Allu Arjun-led AA22xA6 (working title).

Also Check: Kalki 2898 AD sequel: Alia Bhatt to replace Deepika Padukone?

Meanwhile, Kalki 2898 AD continues its journey with Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas and Kamal Haasan in leading roles. On the other hand, Triptii Dimri replaced Deepika in Prabhas-led Spirit.