Sai Pallavi likely to replace Deepika Padukone in Prabhas’ Kalki 2: Report

Ever since Deepika Padukone’s exit from the sequel to Kalki: 2898 AD, speculation has been rife about who will step into the female lead opposite Prabhas. 

While the makers have not officially confirmed any replacement yet, fresh reports suggest that Sai Pallavi may be joining the much-anticipated project.

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Sai Pallavi Emerges as Front-Runner

According to a report by Siasat.com, Sai Pallavi is being considered as Deepika Padukone’s replacement in Kalki 2. Though there has been no official announcement from the film’s team, the possibility has already generated excitement among fans, given Sai Pallavi’s strong screen presence and critical acclaim across industries.

Busy Line-Up for Sai Pallavi

Interestingly, Sai Pallavi already has several major projects in her pipeline, including high-profile Bollywood films. She will be seen portraying Sita in Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious Ramayana, which stars Ranbir Kapoor as Ram and Yash as Ravan. 

Additionally, she is set to appear in Ek Din, opposite Junaid Khan, son of Aamir Khan. If she joins Kalki 2, it would further strengthen her pan-India presence.

Why Deepika Padukone Exited Kalki 2

In September 2025, the makers of Kalki: 2898 AD officially announced Deepika Padukone’s exit from the sequel via their X handle. The statement noted that the film “deserves commitment” and that the partnership could not move forward despite the long journey of making the first instalment.

Subsequently, reports claimed that Deepika had demanded a 25 per cent hike in her fees along with a seven-hour work shift. The makers reportedly attempted negotiations, but no agreement was reached.

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Deepika Breaks Her Silence

Weeks after the announcement, Deepika Padukone addressed the controversy in an interview with CNBC-TV18. Without directly commenting on the film, she spoke about pay parity and working conditions, stating that she has always fought her battles silently and with dignity, even when such matters unexpectedly become public.