Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone has officially parted ways with the highly anticipated sequel to Kalki 2898 AD. The decision, confirmed by production house Vyjayanthi Movies, comes amid reports of disagreements over compensation, working hours, and logistical demands.
Sources close to the production revealed that Deepika had requested a 25% hike in her acting fee compared to the first installment, along with a strict 5-hour daily shoot schedule following her transition into motherhood. Additionally, she reportedly demanded five-star accommodations for her 25-member entourage, a condition that raised concerns among producers about escalating costs.
While the makers initially tried to accommodate her by offering luxury vanity vans and flexible shoot arrangements, negotiations ultimately fell through. Vyjayanthi Movies stated, “We were unable to find a partnership for a film that deserves that commitment and much more,” in their official announcement.
This marks Deepika’s second high-profile exit in recent months, following her departure from Spirit, another Prabhas-starrer directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. Industry insiders suggest that similar demands led to her ouster from that project as well.
With Deepika no longer part of Kalki 2898 AD Part 2, speculation is rife about who will replace her in the sequel. The film’s director Nag Ashwin hinted at a “fresh chapter” in a cryptic social media post, signaling a new lead may soon be announced.
As the conversation around actor rights, work-life balance, and production costs continues to evolve, Deepika’s exit has reignited debates about the expectations placed on top-tier talent in India’s growing cinematic landscape.