Kalki 2: Amitabh Bachchan returns as Ashwatthama, shares first look and reunites with Kamal Haasan after 40 years

Filming for Kalki 2 has begun, reuniting legends Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan after 40 years. With a bigger budget and epic face-offs, the sequel promises to expand its sci-fi mythos.

Amitabh Bachchan with Kamal Haasan on the sets of Kalki 2

The highly awaited sequel to the 2024 sci-fi movie Kalki 2898 AD has officially begun filming, as announced by Amitabh Bachchan. The megastar posted a late-night blog update announcing his upcoming return to Hyderabad, set to reprise his role as Ashwatthama, the eternal warrior. He shared his joy with fans.

What photos by Amitabh Bachchan have sent social media into a frenzy?

A flurry of activity has broken out on social media in response to the announcement and the accompanying photos of the production process. With his worn prosthetics and ancient-looking robes, Bachchan underwent an elaborate metamorphosis to become the mythical son of Dronacharya, as seen in one of the photographs. The most intriguing part of the post, though, was a candid photo of him with fellow co-star Kamal Haasan.

As two of Indian cinema's biggest names reunite after nearly four decades apart, Kalki 2 is a watershed moment in the industry's history. In a blog post, Bachchan revealed that he and Haasan are reuniting after their 1985 action drama Geraftaar collaboration.

ALSO READ: Kalki 2: Nag Ashwin begins shooting for his sequel; Kamal Haasan, Amitabh Bachchan likely to join sets soon

Will Kalki 2 finally deliver the face-off fans are craving?

"Meeting up with the great KAMAL HAASAN... we shall be working together after ages... last in Geraftaar," wrote the actor. Both titans appeared in Nag Ashwin's debut instalment, but they didn't have much screen time together. Fans are hoping that the upcoming sequel will fill that void by giving Haasan's Supreme Yaskin a more prominent and hands-on role in the struggle against Ashwatthama, played by Bachchan.

The 83-year-old star had to forego his usual 'Sunday Darshan' since filming is underway at a specially constructed set in Shankarpally, which is northeast of Hyderabad. For many years, on Sundays, thousands of admirers have flocked to the area outside his Mumbai home, Jalsa, in the hopes of seeing the celebrity.

How did Big B react to the devotion of his fans?

A large group showed up at the gates even though he had warned his fans that he would be away on set. Bachchan handled the situation with his usual modesty and self-control. "Told them that this Sunday I shall not be able to come, since I was shooting in Hyderabad... but still they come... to confirm," he said, pointing out "work first... rest later." If his shooting schedule allows it, he hopes to meet with his fans again this coming Sunday.

Kalki 2898 AD smashed box office records, combining aspects of Mahabharata with a dystopian future and becoming a smash hit. The sequel will further explore the blend of mythology and science fiction. Early sources indicate that the current schedule primarily concentrates on the dialogue-heavy confrontations between Bachchan and Haasan. The production is anticipating the arrival of leading hero Prabhas, who portrays Bhairava/Karna, at a later date.

Are the stakes higher for Kalki 2?

According to production sources, Nag Ashwin and Vyjayanthi Movies have greatly increased the budget for the second installment, with an emphasis on a more intricate storyline and jaw-dropping special effects. The stakes for Kalki 2 have never been higher, what with filming having begun and the two "Gauravs" of Indian cinema finally sharing the screen.

Kalki 2 FAQs:

Q: When did Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan last work together?

A: Prior to Kalki 2, Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan last shared the screen in the 1985 film Geraftaar. Although both were part of the cast of Kalki 2898 AD (2024), they did not have any scenes together in the first installment.

Q: Is Amitabh Bachchan playing Ashwatthama in Kalki 2?

A: Yes. Amitabh Bachchan reprises his role as the immortal Ashwatthama from the Mahabharata. His character serves as the protector of the unborn Kalki and is one of the central figures in the sequel’s conflict against Supreme Yaskin.

Q: Where is Kalki 2 being filmed?

A: As of February 2026, the primary shooting for Kalki 2 is taking place in Hyderabad, specifically at a massive set constructed in Shankarpally. This location is being used for several high-stakes sequences involving Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan.

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