The Kalki 2898 AD sequel has already made headlines, but not for the reasons fans were expecting. Hours after the official announcement confirming Deepika Padukone’s exit from Kalki 2, reports began to surface about the disagreements that led to her removal.
The Core Issues: Fees and Work Hours
According to a Bollywood Hungama report, Deepika had asked for a 25 percent increase in her remuneration compared to what she was paid for the first installment. On top of that, she reportedly insisted on working only seven hours a day. Given that Kalki is a VFX-heavy project requiring extended shoot schedules, these conditions raised concerns about delays and escalating costs.
A source close to the production revealed, “Deepika demanded a 25 percent increment on the acting fees she was paid for the first part. She also put her foot down on shooting for just 7 hours a day. The producers were willing to provide a luxury vanity for her rest in exchange for longer shoot hours, but she refused. Even Prabhas had not asked for an increment.”
The Entourage Factor
Another sticking point was Deepika’s large team. She reportedly travels with around 25 members, and her demands included five-star accommodation and food reimbursement for all of them. The producers, who had already been negotiating her pay and schedule, were unwilling to take on additional expenses. “Why should producers bear the stay and food costs of such a large entourage, over and above the actor’s fee?” the source added.
The Official Exit Announcement
On Thursday, the production house issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter) confirming Deepika’s departure. The post read:
“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. A film like Kalki deserves commitment, and we wish her the best with her future works.”
Why she was removed from Spirit?
This marks the second major Prabhas film Deepika has exited. Earlier, she was removed from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit, reportedly due to similar reasons—demanding shorter workdays, higher pay, and even a share of profits. Industry insiders suggest that as a new mother, Deepika is focused on balancing her personal and professional life, which has influenced her choices.
Meanwhile, reports hint that Triptii Dimri may step into key projects where Deepika was initially cast, signaling a shift in casting dynamics for big-budget pan-Indian films.
With Deepika’s exit, Kalki 2 continues its journey with an even sharper focus on balancing massive production demands with star expectations.
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