Deepika Padukone Bows Out of Kalki 2898 AD Sequel: What Really Happened?
The highly ambitious Kalki 2898 AD franchise has been hit with a casting shake-up. Producers Vyjayanthi Movies officially announced that Deepika Padukone will not be part of the sequel, sparking widespread discussion in the film industry and among fans.
The Official Word
In a carefully phrased statement, the makers said:
“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. A film like Kalki 2898 AD deserves commitment and much more.”
While the message avoided direct criticism, its emphasis on “partnership” and “commitment” hinted at deeper tensions between the production house and the actress.
Behind the Scenes: What Bollywood Hungama Reported
While Vyjayanthi Movies stayed diplomatic, Bollywood Hungama and other outlets reported insider details that paint a more complex picture:
- Fee Hike Dispute
- Deepika allegedly demanded a 25% increase in her fee for the sequel, despite the fact that her co-star Prabhas reportedly did not ask for a hike.
- Reduced Working Hours
- She is said to have asked for a seven-hour workday, which insiders claim clashed with the demanding VFX-driven schedule of the film.
- She is said to have asked for a seven-hour workday, which insiders claim clashed with the demanding VFX-driven schedule of the film.
- Team and Accommodation Demands
- Her team allegedly sought five-star hotel accommodation and food reimbursements for an entourage of nearly 25 people.
- Producers were reportedly unwilling to shoulder these additional costs on top of her revised fee.
- Failed Negotiations
- The production house is believed to have tried to negotiate, suggesting compromises on hours and expenses, but her camp did not budge.
- This stalemate ultimately led to the decision to “not collaborate” for the sequel.
A Pattern?
This is not the first time such reports have surfaced around Deepika. Earlier, her rumored exit from Spirit was also linked to scheduling, financial, and logistical disagreements. With Kalki 2898 AD being one of India’s most ambitious film projects, even small inflexibilities could translate into significant budgetary and scheduling challenges.
What It Means for the Franchise
Deepika’s character was central to Kalki 2898 AD, and her exit forces Vyjayanthi Movies to rethink casting for the sequel. Whether they replace her role or re-imagine the storyline remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the stakes are enormous for a franchise of this scale.
