In a surprising turn of events, Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone has been dropped from the highly anticipated sequel of Kalki 2898 AD, as announced by the film’s makers on X today. The official statement from Vyjayanthi Movies, posted via the handle @letscinema, cites a “lack of commitment” as the reason for her exit. This development has sent shockwaves through the Indian film industry, especially given the massive success of the original Kalki 2898 AD, which hit theaters in June 2024 and grossed over ₹390 crore globally.
This is to officially announce that @deepikapadukone will not be a part of the upcoming sequel of #Kalki2898AD.
After careful consideration, We have decided to part ways. Despite the long journey of making the first film, we were unable to find a partnership.
And a film like…
— Vyjayanthi Movies (@VyjayanthiFilms) September 18, 2025
The original film, a Telugu-language epic mythological sci-fi directed by Nag Ashwin, featured an ensemble cast including Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, and Deepika Padukone. The sequel, tentatively titled Kalki 2898 AD Part 2, was set to continue the dystopian narrative, with production slated to resume in June 2025 and a release targeted for late 2026. However, Deepika’s departure has raised questions about scheduling conflicts and her demanding work conditions, including reports of eight-hour workdays and a high salary, as noted in recent industry buzz.
This isn’t the first time Deepika has exited a major project. Earlier, she was removed from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit, also starring Prabhas, due to similar commitment concerns. As a new mother, Deepika is reportedly balancing her personal life with a packed schedule, including upcoming projects like Pathaan 2 and a potential Hollywood venture. Her exit from Kalki 2 may signal a shift in her career priorities.
Producer C. Aswini Dutt confirmed that Prabhas will lead the sequel, with the original cast largely intact. The film’s technical prowess, supported by Mahindra & Mahindra, and its advanced VFX are expected to elevate the franchise further. However, replacing a prominent actress like Deepika could impact marketing and fan expectations.
As of now, Deepika has not issued an official statement. Fans and industry insiders are eagerly awaiting updates on her replacement and the sequel’s progress. Stay tuned for more on this developing story
