Trouble Brews For Deepika Padukone Again? Kalki 2 Exit Rumours Intensify Amid Post-Maternity Demands

Rumours swirl around Deepika Padukone's exit from Kalki 2 following her ouster from Spirit. Conflicting reports cite working conditions and creative tensions with the filmmakers.

Deepika Padukone’s casting in Kalki 2 hangs in the balance amid reports of creative friction and schedule demands post-motherhood.

Source : IMDb

Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone, recently in the spotlight for her motherhood journey, now finds herself at the centre of a growing storm involving two major films — Spirit and Kalki 2. After being reportedly dropped from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit, Deepika is now rumoured to be on the chopping block for Nag Ashwin’s highly anticipated sequel to Kalki 2898 AD.

While the actress has not commented on the matter, conflicting insider reports and online chatter have stirred speculation over her future in the project.

Director Nag Ashwin Reportedly Reconsidering Deepika’s Role

A new report by Telugu360 claims that director Nag Ashwin is considering replacing Deepika Padukone from Kalki 2. The sequel is said to include a meatier role for her character, but the report alleges that Deepika is being “hellbent” about her working conditions, making collaboration difficult for the production team. The primary concern, as reported, revolves around her unwillingness to be flexible with her schedule — a factor that is reportedly making her a “big headache” for the team.

There has been no official confirmation from either the actress or the production house regarding her alleged removal.

Production Source Denies Any Fallout Yet

In contrast to the dramatic claims, sources close to the production have refuted the rumour that Deepika has already been dropped. Speaking to NDTV, an insider clarified, “They (Kalki 2 makers) haven’t even approached actors because it’s still in development. There’s been no shoot, no interaction, and therefore, no fallout.” This suggests that the entire cast, including Deepika, is still under consideration as the film continues its planning phase.

Deepika’s Prior Exit from Spirit and Sandeep Vanga’s Sharp Response

Earlier this year, Deepika was removed from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s film Spirit, reportedly due to her demands of shorter working hours post-motherhood, a high salary, and profit-sharing. Vanga didn’t hold back, taking to social media to criticise Deepika’s approach. In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), he accused her of breaching an "unsaid NDA" and called out her alleged “dirty PR games.”

“When I narrate a story to an actor, I place 100% faith... Is this what your feminism stands for?” Vanga questioned in his post, further stating, “You didn’t get it. You won’t get it. You will never get it.” He concluded with a sharp dig using the Hindi saying: “Khundak mein billi khamba noche!”

Following her reported exit, Triptii Dimri was confirmed to join the cast of Spirit.

While speculation continues to swirl, Deepika’s team has maintained silence. For now, fans await an official word on whether she will be part of Kalki 2 or make space for a new leading lady once again.