Nag Ashwin’s futuristic epic Kalki 2898 AD, starring Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone, continues to dominate headlines as anticipation builds for its second installment. However, the sequel has been surrounded by controversy since the filmmakers announced in September 2025 that Padukone would not return for Kalki 2.
Since her exit, speculation has intensified over who might replace the actor in the highly anticipated sequel. The latest reports suggest that Sai Pallavi has been approached to step into a key role, though there has been no official confirmation from the filmmakers.
The rumor gained traction after a post by an account called The Climax India on X, formerly Twitter, claimed that Sai Pallavi would replace Padukone in Kalki 2. The post also alleged that Prabhas had committed his dates to director Nag Ashwin, with filming expected to begin in early February.
The claim quickly spread across Reddit, Instagram, and other social media platforms, sparking heated discussions among fans. Reactions have ranged from excitement over Sai Pallavi potentially joining the project to skepticism and criticism of the film’s narrative direction.
One Reddit user criticized the rumored casting, writing that the film risked sidelining its epic concept in favor of fan service centered around Prabhas. Another speculated on how the story might evolve, suggesting that Padukone’s character could be written out early in the sequel, possibly dying while giving birth to Kalki, with Sai Pallavi’s character then raising the child as a warrior destined to battle evil. The user compared the theory to Hindu mythology, referencing the story of Devaki and Yashoda and the birth of Lord Krishna.
Padukone’s departure from the franchise was formally announced by Vyjayanthi Movies, the production house behind Kalki 2898 AD. In a statement released in September 2025, the company said it had decided to part ways with the actor after being unable to align on future collaboration.
“This is to officially announce that Deepika Padukone will not be a part of the upcoming sequel of Kalki 2898 AD,” the statement said. “Despite the long journey of making the first film, we were unable to find a partnership. A film like Kalki 2898 AD deserves that commitment and much more.”
The producers wished Padukone well in her future projects but did not elaborate on the reasons behind the split.
As of now, the makers of Kalki 2 have not confirmed any casting changes. Until an official announcement is made, speculation around Sai Pallavi’s involvement remains unverified, though it continues to fuel online debate and fan theories surrounding the ambitious sequel.
A screenshot of Orry's Instagram reel comment where her alleged wrote about Sara Ali Khan's Bollywood career.Instagram/@orry