Deepika Padukone to star opposite Allu Arjun in Atlee’s AA22×A6?

As of right now, Deepika Padukone is back in the Telugu film industry. The actor, fresh off her hit in Kalki 2898 AD, has landed her next South movie, an action extravaganza with director Atlee and Allu Arjun, which remains untitled at this time. Sun Pictures is producing the production, which is now dubbed AA22×A6 and is expected to go on floors in July or August of this year.

Deal finalised after lengthy negotiations post Jawan success

Peeping Moon has learnt from reliable sources that Deepika (Tamasha) and Atlee have just finalised their deal for the film after months of negotiations. After the giant success of Jawan in 2023, which made over ₹600 crore at the box office, this is their second collaboration. Casting is already underway for the rest of the ensemble, although the film already stars Janhvi Kapoor and Mrunal Thakur (Vitti Dandu) in important parts.

The makers plan to set the ambitious, massive action film AA22×A6 in an alternate reality. The movie is anticipated to have one of the highest budgets in Indian film history, with a whopping ₹700 crore. Renowned Los Angeles special effects houses have already joined forces to craft its aesthetic environment.

Allu Arjun to play dual role for the first time in career

For the first time in his career, Atlee—known for his commercial blockbusters—is casting Allu Arjun (Arya and DJ: Duvvada Jagannadham) in a dual role. In the film, Deepika will don a look that is "tailored to the film's narrative" and reportedly commands a staggering sum for her performance.

A source acquainted with the development noted that Arjun and Deepika have long since expressed interest in working together. The 700-crore action extravaganza promises passionate chemistry between the two superstars onscreen.

Deepika Padukone strategising her return with big projects

Deepika has been on break since September 2024 to give birth, and she is now on maternity leave. However, she is already planning her return to acting after giving birth, with a focus on financially driven, high-profile projects. The insider divulged that Deepika, who will be sporting a makeover specifically for the film, is allegedly demanding an exorbitant sum for her part.

An action thriller starring Shah Rukh Khan, King began production this week in Mumbai, and Deepika will wrap up filming for that project before she starts working on Atlee's project. Reunited with Pathaan co-star SRK and director Siddharth Anand, she makes her King appearance.

Massive expectations riding

Considering Atlee's reach across India, Allu Arjun's immense reputation, and Deepika's comeback to Telugu cinema, AA22×A6 is expected to be a big hit at the theatres.