Vyjayanthi Movies has confirmed that Deepika Padukone will not return for the sequel of Kalki 2898 AD, citing inability to “find a partnership.”
The exit of Padukone, whose role was central to the first film, reshapes one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious franchises and raises questions about its female lead.
The official statement from Vyjayanthi Movies, shared on social media, ended months of speculation around the actress’s involvement. “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 Kalki 2898 AD deserves that commitment and much more,” the note read.
The reference to “commitment” has fueled speculation about the reasons behind her departure. Industry chatter had long suggested creative differences and scheduling conflicts. Trade sources linked this to Padukone’s earlier exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit, also starring Prabhas.
Padukone, who welcomed her first child in 2024, was reportedly seeking a structured work routine with defined hours. While these reports were earlier denied by some close to the production, the official announcement appears to underline differences over work commitment and creative alignment.
Her character, SUM-80, was crucial to the first film’s narrative, with the unborn child she carried positioned as Kalki, the final avatar of Lord Vishnu. The sequel’s storyline now faces a significant shift as the makers prepare to recast or reimagine the female lead.
Exits of top stars from major projects are not unusual in the industry. However, Padukone’s departure stands out given her pivotal role in Kalki 2898 AD, one of India’s costliest sci-fi spectacles. The decision also echoes broader trends of actors prioritizing work-life balance in a demanding film ecosystem.
With production on the sequel expected to begin soon, all eyes will be on who replaces Padukone in the franchise. Meanwhile, she continues with projects like King opposite Shah Rukh Khan, ensuring her position as one of Bollywood’s most bankable stars remains intact.
