Did Deepika Padukone just get trolled by Jaideep Ahlawat over SLB's script war with Alia? Fans think so

In a recent interview, Jewel Thief actor Jaideep Ahlawat sparked a social media storm with a cheeky remark that fans believe is a veiled dig at Deepika Padukone. While promoting his latest film alongside co-stars Saif Nikita Dutta, and Kunal Kapoor, Jaideep's witty response during a fun game segment has reignited chatter about the long-speculated tension between Deepika and Alia Bhatt over filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

During the interview, when Nikita was asked what Deepika would be guilty of stealing, she seemed momentarily puzzled. Jumping in, Jaideep jokingly covered his face and said, “Bhansali sir ki agli script. Isse pehle kisi aur ko chali jaaye,” while making a snatching gesture. The room burst into laughter, but fans were quick to pick up on the deeper implication, a possible reference to the alleged ‘script war’ between Deepika and Alia.

This light-hearted moment didn’t go unnoticed online. A Reddit thread featuring the video quickly went viral, with users debating Jaideep's intent. One user quoted Alia’s past statement from Koffee With Karan where she had remarked, “He’s done 3 with DP, he’s promised me 4,” referring to SLB’s past collaborations with Deepika in Ram-Leela, Bajirao Mastani, and Padmaavat. Another fan commented, “Now even outsiders are trolling Deepu 😭.”

While some fans found Jaideep’s comment amusing and gutsy, others criticized him for taking an indirect jab at Deepika, with some questioning if he would have made the same joke had it involved an industry insider like Alia or Kareena Kapoor. The internet remains divided, with strong opinions on both sides.

As for Alia Bhatt, she is currently shooting Love & War, her second collaboration with Bhansali after the critically acclaimed Gangubai Kathiawadi. The film also stars Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal, and has already generated massive buzz.

Whether Jaideep intended to stir the pot or just made an offhand remark, the moment has once again spotlighted the ever-curious dynamics between Bollywood’s leading ladies and their race to headline Bhansali’s cinematic spectacles.