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**Headline: Deepika Padukone Exits ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ Sequel After ‘Spirit’ Departure**

**[City, Date]** – Deepika Padukone has reportedly exited the sequel to the blockbuster sci-fi film ‘Kalki 2898 AD,’ starring Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, and herself, marking her second high-profile departure from a major project in recent months. Vyjayanthi Movies, the production house behind ‘Kalki 2898 AD,’ released a statement announcing the parting of ways, citing an inability to establish a collaborative partnership.

“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 @Kalki2898AD deserves that commitment and much more,” the statement read.

This news comes after Padukone’s earlier exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s “Spirit,” where she was replaced by Triptii Dimri. According to sources, the departure from “Spirit” was reportedly due to a combination of factors, including the actress’s demands for a high fee (₹25 crore for 35 days of shooting with 10% profit share), extensive entourage expenses, reluctance to deliver Telugu dialogues, and concerns over alleged plot leaks.

One source cited that director Sandeep Reddy Vanga emphasizes actors speaking their own lines for authenticity. “Contrary to speculation, her restricted filming schedule of under 8 hours a day was never the primary issue. In filmmaking, working hours are fluid and depend on location, lighting, and various technical factors. You could shoot for 2 hours or 8, depending on the scene. What truly matters is flexibility, collaboration, and respect for the craft. It’s about commitment.”

‘Kalki 2898 AD’ featured Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas, Deepika Padukone and Kamal Haasan in prominent roles and was directed by Nag Ashwin. It earned over Rs 1000 crore at the global box office.

Padukone’s representatives have yet to release a statement regarding her departure from the ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ sequel. The production is expected to announce a replacement casting in the coming weeks.

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