In a surprising development, Vyjayanthi Movies has officially confirmed that Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone will not be part of the sequel to Telugu language epic mythological sci-fi film Kalki 2898 AD that released in the year 2024.

In a statement released on X, the makers said they had “decided to part ways after careful consideration,” despite the long journey of making the first film together. The production house added that a film of this scale “deserves complete commitment and much more,” while extending best wishes to the actress for her future projects.

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

Deepika Padukone played a pivotal role in the original Kalki 2898 AD, which despite mixed reviews, went on to become one of the highest grossing films of Indian cinema in 2024. With Padukone's exit, all eyes are now on who will step into the sequel’s cast alongside Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, and other returning stars, under Nag Ashwin's direction.