Sai Pallavi emerges as frontrunner to replace Deepika Padukone in Kalki 2898 AD sequel

As anticipation builds around the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD, the makers have confirmed a major casting shift that has set the film industry buzzing. Vyjayanthi Movies has officially stated that Deepika Padukone will not be returning for the second installment of the sci-fi epic, with Sai Pallavi now widely reported as the top contender to step into the role of Sumathi, though no formal announcement has been made yet.

The production house issued a statement in September 2025 confirming Deepika’s exit, citing an inability to “find a partnership” for the sequel. While the official note remained brief, industry reports have pointed to a combination of creative differences, a substantial fee hike reportedly in the range of ₹25–30 crore, and Deepika’s request for a strictly regulated 7–8 hour workday as she balances her professional commitments with motherhood.

In the months since, speculation around the recasting has intensified. Sai Pallavi has emerged as the strongest candidate, with sources suggesting the makers see her as someone who could bring a fresh emotional layer to the character. Before Pallavi became the frontrunner, several high-profile names, including Alia Bhatt and Priyanka Chopra, were also rumored to be in discussions for the part.

Fan theories have added another layer of intrigue. On platforms like Reddit, viewers have speculated that if Sai Pallavi joins the franchise, the storyline could be reworked, possibly involving Deepika’s character exiting the narrative during childbirth, with Pallavi’s character taking over a maternal role in the sequel.

On the production front, Kalki 2 is gearing up to roll soon. Filming is reportedly scheduled to begin on February 2, 2026, with the initial phase focusing on Kamal Haasan’s portions. Prabhas is expected to join the sets in the second week of February, setting the stage for a full-scale shoot.

While the makers remain tight-lipped about the final casting decision, the growing buzz around Sai Pallavi’s potential involvement suggests that an official announcement may not be far away, especially as the sequel’s shooting date draws closer.