Tarun Mansukhani Faces Backlash for Comparing Babies to Dogs Amid Deepika Padukone’s 'Spirit' Exit

Director Tarun Mansukhani, known for his upcoming project Housefull 5, has sparked controversy after making a comment that compared babies to dogs in reference to Deepika Padukone’s much-discussed exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s film Spirit. The director’s remark, though possibly well-intentioned, has drawn severe criticism on social media and among fans who found the analogy insensitive and dismissive.

The controversy stems from the ongoing buzz around Deepika Padukone’s departure from Spirit. Reports suggest that Deepika opted out of the film due to her personal and professional boundaries not being met. She had reportedly asked for an 8-hour workday, a demand that stemmed from her current status as a soon-to-be mother. Along with this, her request for a ₹25 crore remuneration and 10% profit share was said to have caused friction with the team. Additionally, she wished to avoid bold scenes and extensive dialogues in Telugu, as the film is reported to be A-rated. Following her exit, Triptii Dimri was signed as the female lead.

While reacting to this situation during a public discussion, Tarun Mansukhani attempted to show support for Deepika’s demand for limited working hours. However, it was his way of expressing that support that landed him in hot water. He said, “I want to go home and spend time with my dog. So I get the vibe and totally get the feeling.” Though he tried to align with the idea of work-life balance, the comparison between a newborn child and a pet dog was seen by many as inappropriate and reductive.

Social media platforms were quick to react to Mansukhani’s comments. Many users questioned his sensitivity and understanding of parenting, especially in the context of new mothers navigating the challenges of returning to work. One user wrote, “Is he really comparing spending time with his dog to Deepika’s time with her baby?” Another called him a “manchild,” criticizing his inability to understand the seriousness of parental responsibilities.

The backlash has opened up a broader conversation around how the entertainment industry views working mothers and the importance of accommodating their needs. While the industry has historically demanded grueling schedules and long hours, stars like Deepika Padukone are beginning to challenge these norms. Her decision to walk away from Spirit and instead join a new project with Atlee and Allu Arjun has been widely applauded. The teaser for her new film has already garnered positive attention, and many have hailed her as a role model for asserting professional boundaries.

Meanwhile, Tarun Mansukhani has not publicly addressed the backlash. However, the episode stands as a reminder of the importance of thoughtful communication, especially when discussing sensitive topics like parenting and gender dynamics in the workplace. As conversations around equity and work-life balance continue, the film industry will likely face increasing pressure to create more respectful and inclusive environments for all professionals—especially women who are also caregivers.