A major update has surfaced regarding Kalki 2, the much-awaited sequel to Prabhas’ blockbuster Kalki 2898 AD. According to recent reports, Deepika Padukone will not be a part of the sequel, a development that has surprised fans across the country. Adding to the buzz, industry sources now claim that a well-known South Indian actress may step into the film in her place. While the makers have not made any official announcement yet, the news has sparked intense discussion on social media and among cinema lovers.

Deepika Padukone’s exit shocks fans

Deepika Padukone played a crucial role in Kalki 2898 AD, and her performance received widespread appreciation from both critics and audiences. Her on-screen presence and pairing with Prabhas were among the highlights of the film, which made her reported exit from the sequel all the more shocking. Since Kalki was designed as a multi-part cinematic universe, fans were expecting Deepika’s character to have an even bigger role in the upcoming installment.

However, reports suggest that the situation changed during the planning phase of Kalki 2. While there has been no official statement from either Deepika Padukone or the production team, multiple media outlets claim that creative differences led to her departure from the project.

Why did Deepika Padukone leave Kalki 2?

According to industry insiders, Deepika was reportedly unhappy with the changes being made to her character in the sequel. It is being said that her role was reduced compared to the first part, which did not align with her expectations. In addition to this, scheduling conflicts and prior commitments may have further complicated matters.

Because of these combined reasons, Deepika Padukone is believed to have stepped away from Kalki 2. That said, the makers have maintained silence on the issue, and no formal confirmation has been issued so far.

Is Sai Pallavi joining the cast?

Amid Deepika’s reported exit, a new name has emerged as a potential replacement—Sai Pallavi. Known for her natural acting style, strong screen presence, and simplicity, Sai Pallavi enjoys a massive fan following across South India and beyond. Reports suggest that she is being considered for a key role in Kalki 2, though it is not yet clear whether this role is the same one originally meant for Deepika Padukone or a newly written character.

As of now, there is no official confirmation from the filmmakers regarding Sai Pallavi’s casting. However, the mere possibility of her joining the project has excited fans, who believe she could bring a fresh emotional depth to the story.

Shooting schedule: When will Kalki 2 begin?

According to reports, Prabhas is set to begin shooting for Kalki 2898 AD Part 2 from February 2, 2026. The actor is expected to join the next shooting schedule from that date. Once again, the film will be directed by Nag Ashwin, who received widespread praise for creating the grand and imaginative world of Kalki 2898 AD.

Following the massive success of the first installment, expectations from the sequel are extremely high. Sources indicate that Kalki 2 will be bigger in scale, with a more layered narrative and deeper exploration of the film’s futuristic universe. Several new characters are also expected to be introduced in the sequel.

A major opportunity for Sai Pallavi

If Sai Pallavi does come on board, Kalki 2 could become one of the biggest projects of her career. She has already proven her versatility in South Indian cinema and has also made a mark in Bollywood and pan-India films. Being part of a large-scale science-fiction franchise like Kalki would further strengthen her position as a leading pan-India actress.

Director Nag Ashwin has previously mentioned that the Kalki universe will continue to expand, offering strong roles to multiple characters. This makes the sequel even more intriguing, as audiences eagerly wait to see how the cast and story evolve.