Months after Deepika Padukone was officially dropped from the sequel of Kalki 2898 AD, reports now suggest that her name has also been removed from the end credits of the first film on OTT platforms. The revelation came after a fan on X (formerly Twitter) shared screenshots, writing, “Credits aren’t just names at the end of a movie. They’re acknowledgment, accountability, and respect for the work put in. When someone like Deepika, who played a pivotal role in shaping the emotional core of ‘Kalki,’ isn’t credited even after months of OTT release…”
The post quickly went viral, sparking disappointment among fans. Many criticized Vyjayanthi Films, the production house behind the film, for the alleged removal. One user wrote, “Removing Deepika’s name from the end credits won’t erase her impact from the movie. This is just petty.”
In September 2025, Vyjayanthi Films officially confirmed Deepika’s exit from the sequel, releasing a statement that read: “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. A film like ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ deserves that commitment and much more. We wish her the best in her future works.”
Reports later claimed that the decision followed disagreements over Deepika’s fee hike of 25% and her request for a seven-hour workday, which the makers were unwilling to accommodate.
Addressing the issue indirectly, Deepika spoke to CNBC-TV18 about pay parity and professionalism in Bollywood, saying, “I have done this at many levels; this is not new to me. I’ve always fought my battles silently and in a dignified way. For some strange reason, sometimes they become public—but that’s not how I was brought up.”
credits aren’t just names at the end of a movie. They’re acknowledgment, accountability, and respect for the work put in. When someone like Deepika Padukone, who’s played a pivotal role in shaping the emotional core of Kalki, isn’t credited even after months of OTT release pic.twitter.com/IcQOe0qSmW
— Dua Padukone (@Duapadukone) October 28, 2025
The controversy continues to draw attention online, with fans debating professionalism and respect in the film industry.