In a surprising development, Deepika Padukone will not be part of the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD, despite having already shot for nearly 20 days.

According to a report by News18, Deepika filmed several scenes for Part 2 while shooting for Part 1. The decision to drop her from the sequel reportedly followed a disagreement over her fee hike.

A source close to the production revealed that Deepika had asked for a 25% hike in her fees, confident that she would not be replaced for the sequel.

The source stated, “Deepika Padukone’s demand for a pay hike — significantly higher than 25% — stemmed from her conviction that she is irreplaceable. The turning point lay in how her management handled the negotiations. She was fully aware of the sequel and the strong, performance-driven role created for her.”

The source further mentioned that director Nag Ashwin had earlier confirmed that Deepika had already shot for Part 2 during Part 1’s production. “Her schedule for the next phase was always meant to be decided mutually, so the claim of a date clash holds no merit,” the source added.

When announcing her exit, the makers of Kalki 2898 AD posted on social media, saying, “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 Kalki 2898 AD deserves that commitment and much more. We wish her the best with her future works.”

As of now, Deepika has not issued any statement regarding her departure from the film.