Deepika Padukone Walks Out of Kalki 2; Makers Cite Commitment Issues

Deepika Padukone Exits Kalki 2; Makers Cite Commitment, Actress Yet to Respond.

Actor Deepika Padukone will not be part of Kalki 2, the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD. On Thursday, the film’s producers announced her exit via their official X handle, hinting that the decision stemmed from commitment concerns.

“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,” the statement read.

Padukone, who played a pivotal role in the first installment, has not issued any personal statement yet.

Deepika’s Exit from Spirit

This marks the second Prabhas film from which Padukone has stepped away. Earlier, she was dropped from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit. Reports suggested differences over work conditions — including reduced working hours, higher pay, and profit-sharing — as the actress attempts to balance her professional and personal life after becoming a mother.

Vanga later took to X and accused Padukone of playing “dirty PR games,” expressing disappointment over the fallout. Following her exit, Triptii Dimri was confirmed to join the cast of Spirit.

What Lies Ahead

With Kalki 2 in the works, the makers have yet to announce Padukone’s replacement opposite Prabhas. Meanwhile, speculation continues around how her absence may reshape the sequel’s storyline.