Deepika Padukone exits Kalki 2898 AD sequel; makers cite commitment issues
Deepika Padukone will not return for the Kalki 2898 AD sequel, says Vyjayanthi Movies, citing creative differences; filmmakers vow to continue the project with updates to come.
Last Updated: 12.18 PM, Sep 18, 2025
The sequel to the 2024 science fiction epic Kalki 2898 AD will not feature Deepika Padukone. On September 18, 2025, Vyjayanthi Movies officially posted the announcement on X.
Vyjayanthi Movies confirms the exit
The studio 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."
In the first film, Padukone played a major role as Kalki's mother, Sumati, the one who would come to save the world. The sequel was supposed to give her character a more substantial arc. The makers, however, admitted that they were unable to form the required collaboration for the project, underscoring the fact that a film of this magnitude necessitates an amount of dedication that was simply not feasible.
First film’s ensemble cast and critical acclaim
Nag Ashwin's Kalki 2898 AD had an ensemble cast in its first installment, which included Prabhas, Disha Patani, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan. Acclaimed for its massive production value and spectacular visual flair, the film garnered accolades for its audacious narrative that fused aspects of Indian mythology with futuristic science fiction.
Rumours suggested that much of the filming had already concluded, as many eagerly awaited the sequel. Producers hinted at resuming production and expanding the established universe's plot. Since Padukone has decided to step away, the crew has remained silent about how production will proceed and who will take over her role.
Social media buzz
Some fans have praised Padukone's previous work, while others have speculated about the sequel's adaptation in her absence, expressing a range of emotions on social media. Despite the change in actors, the filmmakers have vowed to continue crafting a high-quality sequel, making sure the world established in the first film evolves.
Redesigning the sequel while preserving the scope and ambition that established Kalki 2898 AD as a watershed moment in Indian cinema is currently the main objective. We may anticipate additional updates from the production team in the months to come.
FAQs:
Q: Why is Deepika Padukone not part of the Kalki 2898 AD sequel?
A: Vyjayanthi Movies stated that despite careful consideration, they could not establish the necessary partnership for the sequel. The film demands a high level of commitment, which could not be achieved.
Q: Who did Deepika Padukone play in the first Kalki 2898 AD?
A: She played Sumati, the mother of the prophesied saviour Kalki, and her character was expected to have a larger arc in the sequel.
Q: Who stars in the first Kalki 2898 AD film?
A: The original film featured Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, Disha Patani, and Deepika Padukone, directed by Nag Ashwin.