Bollywood fans hoping to see Deepika Padukone alongside Prabhas again in the high-octane world of ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ will have to wait.
On Thursday, Vyjayanthi Movies, the production house behind the blockbuster sci-fi epic and its sequel, confirmed that Deepika will not reprise her role as Sumathi.
The decision comes after discussions over “commitments” reportedly could not be resolved.
In an official statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Vyjayanthi Movies said, “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.”
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…
— Vyjayanthi Movies (@VyjayanthiFilms) September 18, 2025
The statement hinted that the filmmakers are looking for someone who can dedicate the time and energy the sequel demands.
Also Read: Deepika Padukone steps away from ‘Spirit’; Director’s cryptic post raises eyebrows
Deepika has nothing but praise for her co-star Prabhas, who returned to the limelight with the first ‘Kalki 2898 AD’, but her next collaboration with him is now on hold.
The news comes only months after reports that she had declined Prabhas’ other upcoming project, ‘Spirit’, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. Reports suggested that her decision comes after her new responsibilities as a mother.
Interestingly, Deepika had filmed parts of the original ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ while pregnant. Her husband, Ranveer Singh, even joked that the film marked their child’s on-screen debut.
The movie itself was a massive production, with a budget exceeding Rs 700 crore, making it the most expensive film in Indian cinema history. Despite such a huge investment, it performed moderately well at the box office, grossing over Rs 1000 crore worldwide.