Speculation on the casting details of Kalki 2898 AD sequel has reached new heights on Tuesday, with reports saying that actor Alia Bhatt has been roped in to join the film and even completed shooting some parts of the movie. The news gained popularity online with fans speculating about whether the actor will be replacing Deepika Padukone or taking up a new part.
But the creators have now quashed all rumors regarding Alia joining the much-anticipated sequel of Kalki 2898 AD.
While a few social media posts and fan accounts stated that actor Alia Bhatt is set to play an important role in the sequel directed by Nag Ashwin, other reports suggested that the actor will replace Deepika Padukone's character of Sumathi (SUM-80). Some reports stated that the actress had completed filming of portions of the movie in Hyderabad.
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This comes in wake of earlier reports stating that actor Sai Pallavi has replaced Deepika Padukone for playing a new character in the sequel.
Makers deny reports Of Alia shooting for the film
Responding to the rumours, a spokesperson for the Kalki 2898 AD team told Hindustan Times that reports of Alia Bhatt shooting for the film were incorrect.
"No shooting," the spokesperson said, dismissing claims that the actor had already filmed scenes for the sequel. When asked about her casting, the spokesperson added that there was no official clarity on the matter.
"There’s no official clarity yet. Someone posted it on social media, and everyone else copied and pasted it as news. There’s definitely no clarity regarding her casting yet," the spokesperson was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times. The clarification suggests that discussions around Alia's involvement remain speculative at this stage.
Deepika Padukone had earlier exited the sequel
The speculations about the casting began several months after the production house, Vyjayanthi Movies, confirmed that Deepika Padukone won’t be back for the sequel.
According to the statement released in September 2025, it was confirmed that both sides mutually decided to go their separate ways.
After the actress’s departure from the film, rumors circulated around Sai Pallavi being picked up as a replacement for the role of Sumathi. However, it was made clear that no final decision had been made at that time.
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On the other hand, production of the sequel seems to be going strong. Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan are reported to be back on the sets, while Prabhas is yet to report for the shoot.
Without any announcement by the production house of any new addition to the cast, fans might have to wait until the makers confirm Alia Bhatt’s participation.
FAQS
Q1. Is Alia Bhatt replacing Deepika Padukone in Kalki 2898 AD sequel?
Not necessarily. It should be noted that the makers of the movie are yet to make any official announcement confirming the news.
Q2. Has Alia Bhatt already shot scenes for Kalki 2898 AD sequel?
According to a spokesperson for the film, reports claiming that Alia Bhatt has already filmed scenes for the sequel are incorrect.