Director Mani Ratnam, during promotions for his upcoming film Thug Life, voiced support for actress Deepika Padukone after reports claimed she was dropped from Prabhas' Spirit for insisting on an 8-hour workday. Mani Ratnam stated that Deepika’s request was fair and not unreasonable. "She has the right to make such a request, and it’s something we should accept and respect," he said.