'Kalki 2898 AD' makers announce Deepika Padukone’s exit from the sequel, says our franchise deserves commitment

Deepika Padukone, who played the role of Sum 80 in Kalki 2898 AD, will not be returning for the sequel. An official announcement from the makers has sent shockwaves through the film industry, announcing Padukone’s exit from the sequel.

Releasing a statement on social media, the producers of Kalki 2898 AD announced Deepika Padukone’s exit from the sequel. The statement read, "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. (sic)"

The news has triggered widespread discussion online, with netizens speculating over the reasons behind her departure. Deepika Padukone has been given a graceful exit as the makers said the franchise “deserves commitment”, leaving fans curious about what lies ahead in one of India's most ambitious sagas.

Sources close to the project hint that Deepika Padukone’s departure was due to her rising demands. Insiders claim that the actress insisted on a private jet for her travel and a large entourage of nearly a dozen people.

Despite paying the star a substantial salary, these extra costs reportedly became a major financial burden for the producers, leading them to take this harsh decision, said an insider.

Over the past couple of months, Deepika Padukone’s alleged work restrictions have become a topic of debate.

It all started when Spirit maker, Sandeep Reddy Vanga, publicly criticised an actress for disclosing information and undermining his work, which was linked as a reference to Deepika's departure.

Since then, Deepika's style of work has received mixed reactions from both industry insiders and netizens.

Kalki 2898 AD, the first instalment in this universe, was directed by Nag Ashwin and starred Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Kamal Haasan, Saswata Chatterjee and Shobhana, among others. The film, a sci-fi action thriller, was released on June 27, 2024, and went on to make a worldwide box-office collection of over Rs 753 crore.