Tamannaah Bhatia Backs Deepika Padukone in Vanga Row? Actress Clarifies After Liking Viral Gender Pay Gap Video

Tamannaah Bhatia recently found herself at the center of a social media stir after liking a video featuring Deepika Padukone that many interpreted as a subtle jab in an ongoing controversy involving director Sandeep Reddy Vanga. The incident comes in the wake of widespread speculation about Deepika’s reported exit from Vanga’s upcoming film Spirit, with rumors citing unprofessional behavior and creative differences. In this context, Tamannaah's social media activity caught the attention of fans and industry watchers alike.

The viral reel that Tamannaah liked included a powerful snippet from a 2020 press conference for Deepika's film Chhapaak. In the clip, Deepika is seen firmly responding to a reporter who suggests that her husband, Ranveer Singh, may have financed the project. Deepika’s response — “Excuse me, yeh mere khud ke paise hain. Kisne bola yeh?” (“Excuse me, this is my own money. Who told you otherwise?”) — highlighted issues of gender bias and assumptions often made about women’s financial independence, especially in the film industry.

Overlaying the reel were phrases like: “Propaganda she's not falling for: disrespect, men, sexism, gender pay gap, working overtime, unprofessionalism, misogyny, double standards.” The video appeared to celebrate Deepika’s strong stance on equality and professionalism, and many took Tamannaah’s like as a clear sign of support.

Social media users were quick to connect the dots, suggesting that Tamannaah was backing Deepika in her rumored feud with Sandeep Reddy Vanga. This interpretation gained traction amid increasing criticism of Vanga’s portrayal of women in his past films and ongoing discussions around gender dynamics in the industry. Given the reel’s theme and timing, Tamannaah’s action was seen by some as a quiet rebellion, a show of solidarity from one actress to another.

However, the narrative quickly shifted when Tamannaah responded to the growing chatter. The actress clarified that her account’s 'like' on the video was entirely unintentional. She attributed the incident to an Instagram algorithm glitch, stating that the platform may have liked the video on its own, without her knowledge or consent. Her explanation was an attempt to douse the fire of speculation, suggesting there was no hidden message or support intended in the action.

This episode underscores the fragility of digital interactions and how easily online gestures can be misinterpreted, especially when celebrities are involved. A single click, even if accidental, can be perceived as a public statement. For stars like Tamannaah, whose every move is scrutinized, the blurred lines between personal social media activity and public perception can often lead to unintended controversies.

While Tamannaah’s clarification may calm the immediate frenzy, the incident has once again spotlighted the gender issues that still plague the entertainment industry — including unequal pay, sexism, and the double standards actresses face. Regardless of the intent behind the social media activity, the conversation it sparked continues to resonate with many who advocate for change and fairness in the film world.