Reports that actor Deepika Padukone, who starred in Kalki 2898 AD, will not be returning for the sequel have heightened speculation about the film’s casting. Industry rumors currently suggest Sai Pallavi as a potential replacement, despite the fact that the film’s producers and director have not released an official comment. This move has provoked significant reactions on the internet.
A representative connected to the movie stated that Sai Pallavi is being considered for the character of SUM-80, also known as Sumati, according to a report by Hindustan Times. They emphasized, though, that talks are still ongoing and nothing has been finalized.
The insider was reported as stating, “The team feels Sai Pallavi could be a good fit for the role, but there is no final confirmation at this stage.” The source also said that it is premature to speculate that the actor has already signed a contract or that filming will soon resume.
Months after leaving Spirit, Deepika Padukone is said to have left the project. According to reports, she had already shot parts of Kalki 2898 AD 2 before talks allegedly broke down. The reasons for her departure have not been made public by either the actor or the producers.
What is the significance of this casting change? SUM-80 is the emotional and narrative center of the plot in the first installment, not just another character. She is a pregnant Project K test subject who is thought to be the foretold mother of Kalki, a significant character in the mythical sci-fi world of the movie. The role has a big influence on how the sequel is shaped.
Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan star in the Nag Ashwin-directed movie. As Bhairava’s actual name is exposed and SUM-80 escapes Supreme Yaskin’s grasp and enters Ashwatthama’s protection, the first section comes to a spectacular conclusion.
Internet Reacts
Fans are divided on social media. Some fans praised Sai Pallavi’s acting versatility and on-screen persona, welcoming the prospect of her joining the franchise. Given Deepika’s close connection to the part, others wondered how the change may impact continuity.
Kalki 2898 AD, which debuted in June 2024, made ₹1,042 crore worldwide at the box office. With great hopes for the follow-up, viewers are currently awaiting official word on whether Sai Pallavi will indeed play one of the most talked-about science fiction parts in Indian film.
More about Deepika Padukone’s exit
In September 2025, Deepika Padukone formally left the movie following several fruitless talks. The actress reportedly had already begun filming the second portion of the film.
However, problems pertaining to compensation and working hours were the subject of the disputes. On the social media site X (previously Twitter), the producers announced her departure; however, no one has provided an explanation.
Who is Sai Pallavi?
Sai Pallavi, who is renowned for her realistic acting abilities, achieved great success in her career despite being picky because she preferred to play significant characters over attractive ones. Her natural and unadulterated performances have already allowed her to portray a number of nuanced roles.
It is well known that she had already begun filming for the role of Sita Devi, the goddess in the historical epic Ramayana, in which Ranbir Kapoor plays the lead.
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Regardless of what she has accomplished thus far, viewers and critics expect her to deliver a career-best performance, which makes playing such an iconic role extremely difficult and challenging.
With the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to star in two mythological fantasy films based on the Indian epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata, she is poised to accomplish a unique accomplishment in Indian cinema.
Image courtesy: Wikipedia
