Deepika Padukone hints at real reason behind leaving big-budget films like Kalki AD 2 and Spirit, says ‘We have normalised overworking’

Deepika Padukone talks about leaving big films

Deepika Padukone has reached a point in her career where the numbers on the box office don’t hold the same magic they once did for her.

The actress, who has long been admired for her choice of roles and her vocal advocacy for fair work practices, recently opened up about stepping away from two high-profile projects opposite Prabhas.

Even films boasting Rs 500-crore budgets no longer dazzle her the way they used to.

In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, she explained, “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.”

For Deepika, the thrill now comes from something deeper: fostering creativity and supporting emerging voices in the industry.

“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,” she shared.

Through KA Productions, she has backed films like Chhapaak and 83, projects that reflect her desire to champion meaningful stories over mere commercial appeal.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone breaks silence on 8-hour workday demand; says, ‘We mistake burnout for commitment’

Choosing work with honesty over scale has become her guiding principle. “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.

Deepika acknowledges that clarity has come with experience: “Was I always this clear? Maybe not. But I’ve reached that clarity now. Do I sometimes look back and think, ‘What was I thinking?’ Of course. That’s part of learning. Maybe 10 years from now, I’ll question some of today’s choices. But right now, they feel honest.”

Her reflections also extend to Bollywood’s grueling work culture. “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 said, a sentiment underlined by her recent exits from Spirit and Kalki 2898 AD, reportedly influenced by fair pay and manageable schedules.

On the work front, Deepika Padukone will next be seen in King, alongside Shah Rukh Khan.