Deepika Padukone exits Kalki 2898 AD sequel: Creative differences or unreasonable demands?

Bollywood Diva Deepika Padukone’s unexpected exit from Nag Ashwin’s Kalki 2898 AD sequel has created ripples in the film industry. The actress, who played a pivotal role in the original alongside Prabhas, will not be reprising her character in the next chapter of the sci-fi epic. For fans, the news came as a shock, especially since this marks her second exit from a Prabhas-led film after Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit.

Also Read: Kalki 2898 AD Sequel: Deepika Padukone not a part of much-awaited Prabhas' flick

Official Word from the Makers

Vyjayanthi Movies, the banner behind Kalki 2898 AD, issued an official statement confirming Padukone’s departure. They said the decision was made after “careful consideration” and cited the inability to find the right “partnership” going forward. Without directly addressing speculation, the statement emphasized that a film of such scale requires unwavering commitment.

So this was the reason #DeepikaPadukone got removed from #Spirit first by @imvangasandeep and now from #Kalki2 because of unprofessional demands from the producers ( even leaked the script of spirit ) !!

Kudos to Telugu producers for removing an unprofessional actress like her… pic.twitter.com/qmfUdmAgA8

— Karthik (@imrkartik) September 18, 2025

Reports of Rising Demands

Despite the neutral tone of the official announcement, industry reports suggest otherwise. According to The Indian Express and Pinkvilla, the actress allegedly sought a 25% hike in remuneration compared to the first film.

#DeepikaPadukone's demands for #Kalki2898AD:
- 25% Salary hike from what she is getting currently
- 7 Hrs work time per day
- 25 Members of her team will accompany. Producers need to pay the salary, Stay & Food

Wondering how #Atlee & Sun Pictures convinced her for #AA22xA6😳👀 pic.twitter.com/g3oZpPRGm6

— AmuthaBharathi (@CinemaWithAB) September 18, 2025

She was also reported to have requested shorter working hours of about seven hours daily, and luxury accommodation for an entourage of nearly 25 people, along with reimbursement for their meals. Producers reportedly found these conditions financially and logistically challenging for a VFX-heavy project already running on a tight schedule.

#DeepikaPadukone's demands for #Kalki2898AD:
- 25% Salary hike from what she is getting currently
- 7 Hrs work time per day
- 25 Members of her team will accompany. Producers need to pay the salary, Stay & Food

Do you really agree with producer's decision? pic.twitter.com/SS31EtScLU

— Jeevan G Jayan (@JeevanGJay81819) September 18, 2025

Déjà Vu After Spirit

This development echoes Padukone’s earlier exit from Spirit, another big-ticket Prabhas film. At the time, media reports pointed to similar disagreements over work hours, language barriers, and profit-sharing clauses. While none of these were ever confirmed by the actress or the production house, the recurring narrative has raised eyebrows within the industry.

What’s Confirmed and What’s Not!

What is clear is that the makers have diplomatically chosen to frame the separation as a professional decision rooted in “creative differences.” What remains unconfirmed are the reports of “unprofessional demands” that some media reports have highlighted. Neither Padukone nor her team has issued a statement addressing these allegations.

Also Read: Deepika Padukone is 'indispensable' part of Kalki 2898 AD, reports of reducing or removing her role are untrue!

Who Will Replace Deepika?

While speculation continues, the fact remains that Deepika Padukone will not be part of Kalki 2898 AD 2. Whether the exit was due to creative misalignment or escalating demands, the sequel will now move forward without one of Bollywood’s leading ladies, leaving fans curious about who will step into the role.