After Spirit, Deepika Padukone to Be Removed from Prabhas' Kalki 2898 AD Sequel Too?

Deepika Padukone to Be Removed From Kalki 2898 AD Sequel:

In a surprising turn of events, Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone, fresh off her recent withdrawal from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit, may now face exclusion from Kalki 2, opposite Prabhas. A post by the Bollywood Mobi Instagram page (with 2 million followers) suggests that her request for shorter workdays post-motherhood is stirring tension in production.

"Deepika Padukone proposed to me first. I left her, but I don’t regret it" – Muzammil Ibrahim

Reports indicate that Deepika’s insistence on an eight-hour work limit—and possibly other professional stipulations—has created a "friction" point with Kalki 2’s production team. As a result, casting discussions are underway to either trim her role or replace her entirely. Though the production house has remained tight-lipped, insiders say similar issues prompted her exit from Spirit. This is just a rumor for now, and there is no official word from the production team or Deepika's team yet.

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Notably, Deepika has spoken publicly about the importance of respectful and balanced work environments, especially since becoming a mother. She emphasized prioritizing projects that align with her values. Following her Spirit departure, Triptii Dimri was quickly signed as her replacement, signaling Bollywood’s increasing acceptance of maternal boundaries in demanding film schedules.  

If Deepika steps away from Kalki 2, it would mark two high-profile recasts in quick succession. Given the mega-budget scale and strong expectations surrounding Kalki 2, this development could significantly impact the sequel’s trajectory. As of now, neither Deepika nor the makers have confirmed her status. Fans and trade analysts alike are keenly watching to see what comes of it now.

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