Bollywood star Deepika Padukone will not be part of the highly anticipated sequel to Kalki 2898 AD, the sci-fi blockbuster starring Prabhas. The announcement was made by the film’s makers on Thursday via their official X (formerly Twitter) handle, citing an inability to establish a strong working partnership.
Official Statement from the Makers
In their post, the makers wrote:
“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 @Kalki2898AD deserves that commitment and much more. We wish her the best with her future works.”
Deepika Maintains Silence
As of now, Deepika Padukone has not released any official statement about her departure. Her exit from Kalki 2 marks the second high-profile film with Prabhas she has distanced herself from. She was previously removed from Spirit, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga.
This is to officially announce that @deepikapadukone will not be a part of the upcoming sequel of #Kalki2898AD.
— Vyjayanthi Movies (@VyjayanthiFilms) September 18, 2025
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…
Reported Conflicts Over Work Conditions
According to reports, Deepika had requested an eight-hour workday, a high remuneration, and a share in the film’s profits. These demands, combined with her recent journey into motherhood, suggest she is aiming for a more balanced lifestyle—something that reportedly didn’t align with the production’s expectations.
Vanga’s Strong Reaction
Following her removal from Spirit, director Sandeep Reddy Vanga took to social media, criticizing Deepika and accusing her of “dirty PR games.”
“You’ve ‘DISCLOSED’ the person that you are… Is this what your feminism stands for?” he wrote in a scathing post.
Triptii Dimri Joins the Cast
After Deepika’s exit, Triptii Dimri has been confirmed to join Vanga’s film, signaling a fresh direction for the project.