Sandeep Reddy Vanga recreates Animal frenzy as Spirit first look featuring Prabhas and Triptii Dimri drops as New Year surprise

The new year kicked off on a high note for Prabhas fans as the makers of Spirit unveiled the film’s first look exactly at midnight. The Pan-India project marks the first-ever collaboration between Prabhas and director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, instantly making the reveal one of the most discussed cinematic moments as 2026 began.The timing of the first-look launch appeared to be a deliberate move, and one that worked in the film’s favour. Social media platforms were flooded with reactions within minutes, with fans hailing the collaboration and dissecting every detail of the poster. Just hours before the reveal, Sandeep Reddy Vanga built anticipation with a brief post on December 31, writing, “People… A few hours more for SPIRIT – First Poster.” The strategy closely mirrors the approach he had earlier used while announcing Animal, starring Ranbir Kapoor—another film that had benefited from a midnight reveal and sustained online chatter.Even before its first look, Spirit had remained in the news due to a much-discussed casting change. Deepika Padukone, who was initially associated with the film, stepped away citing work-hour concerns. The development sparked industry-wide conversations before Triptii Dimri was officially roped in.With Triptii Dimri joining the cast, Spirit now marks her first on-screen collaboration with Prabhas and her second project with Vanga after Animal. The film also stars Vivek Oberoi and Kanchana in pivotal roles. Backed by T-Series, Spirit is being mounted on a grand scale, combining Vanga’s intense cinematic sensibilities with Prabhas’ Pan-India appeal.