Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jan 1: Filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga unveiled the first look of his much-awaited cop drama Spirit at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Day, welcoming 2026 with a striking poster featuring Prabhas and Triptii Dimri. While the reveal generated massive buzz among fans, it also triggered a wave of mixed reactions on social media, with several netizens drawing parallels between Spirit and Vanga’s 2023 blockbuster Animal.
The poster shows Prabhas shirtless, his back facing the camera, visibly bruised and wrapped in bandages. Despite his injuries, the actor is seen holding a liquor bottle and smoking, exuding a raw and brooding intensity. Triptii Dimri, dressed in a grey sari, is seen lighting a cigarette for him, adding to the gritty visual narrative.
Fans flooded social media praising Prabhas’ physical transformation, with many comparing his lean and muscular look to his Baahubali days. “Peak Prabhas physique loading in 2026,” wrote one user on X, while others lauded the actor’s intense screen presence.
However, the poster also attracted criticism, with several users pointing out similarities to Animal, especially scenes involving Triptii Dimri caring for a wounded protagonist. Some netizens felt the visual echoed controversial moments from Animal, reigniting debates around Vanga’s storytelling style. The fact that Triptii featured prominently in both films further fuelled the comparisons.
Amid the discussion, some users opined that Triptii was a better casting choice compared to Deepika Padukone, who was initially attached to the project but later opted out due to work-hour and logistical concerns. Triptii reportedly came on board soon after, marking her reunion with Vanga following Animal, which proved to be her breakthrough role.
Spirit also stars Vivek Oberoi in a key role, reportedly as the antagonist. The film is produced by Bhushan Kumar’s T-Series in association with Vanga’s Bhadrakali Pictures and is slated for release later this year.
Earlier, on Prabhas’ birthday in October, Vanga had released an audio teaser in multiple languages, hinting that Prabhas plays an IPS officer who is currently behind bars. The teaser, featuring voices of Prakash Raj and Vivek Oberoi, added to the anticipation surrounding the project.
With the first look now out, Spirit has firmly entered the spotlight — drawing both excitement and scrutiny as audiences await more from the much-talked-about collaboration.