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On Thursday, the makers of Kalki 2898 AD officially announced that actor Deepika Padukone will not be a part of the film’s sequel. Despite playing a significant role as Sumati in the first installment, the production house Vyjayanthi Movies stated that the sequel “deserves more commitment.” Reports soon emerged suggesting that Deepika’s exit was linked to her “impossible demands.” Hours after the announcement, director Nag Ashwin posted a cryptic message on his Instagram Stories with the caption: “You can’t change what happened but you can choose what happens next.” Many speculated this was his subtle response to the ongoing controversy.
Now, an insider has allegedly shared Deepika’s side of story. A source told India Today that the actor left after her role was reportedly chopped from the sequel. Apparently, the sequel was initially planned to revolve around Deepika’s character. However, later, the makers informed her that there had been changes in the script. Her part was almost reduced to a cameo, which shocked her team who eventually decided to part ways.
On Thursday, Vyjayanthi Movies, in its official statement on X, wrote: “This is to officially announce that Deepika Padukone will not be a part of the upcoming sequel of Kalki 2898 AD. 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 Kalki 2898 AD deserves that commitment and much more. We wish her the best with her future works.”
According to a report in Bollywood Hungama, Deepika demanded a 25% hike in fees, insisted on working only seven hours a day despite the film’s heavy VFX requirements, and sought extensive accommodations for her 25-member entourage. Producers reportedly tried to negotiate, offering alternatives, but her team refused.
The source said: “Deepika’s team is a big one with almost 25 people travelling with her on the sets. They demanded a five-star accommodation and reimbursement for food through the shoot for her entourage. Why should the producers pay for the stay and food of an actor, over and above the fees? This is an issue that a lot of Hindi producers also face.” SCREEN reached out to the actor’s reps who have refused to respond at this point.
This marks the second film this year that has dropped Deepika, after Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit. The Kalki team also cited issues with her alleged refusal to speak Telugu dialogues and her demand for shorter shifts.
Deepika Padukone has yet to comment on the development. Kalki 2898 AD stars Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan in the
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