
‘Kalki 2898 AD’, which was a massive hit in 2024, is set to continue its journey with the next installment in Nag Ashwin’s ambitious sci-fi universe. However, there is a major change in the cast as Deepika Padukone, who played the crucial role of Sumathi, is reportedly not returning. Rumors suggest that Alia Bhatt might step in to take her place for the future chapters.Alia Bhatt in talks for Sumathi roleAccording to Lets Cinema, Alia Bhatt is at the top of the choice list to play Sumathi in ‘Kalki 2898 AD Part 2’. The producers haven’t confirmed it yet, but Alia is in talks with the makers.
Official confirmation of Deepika’s exitThe filmmakers have officially confirmed Deepika Padukone’s exit from the ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ sequel, attributing it to differences in creative vision and commitment. They stated, “This is to officially announce that Deepika Padukone will not be a part of the upcoming sequel of Kalki 2898 AD. 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.”Story setting and background‘Kalki 2898 AD’, directed by Nag Ashwin, is set in a distant future long after the Kurukshetra War from the Mahabharata. The story starts in 3102 BC when Lord Krishna asks Ashwatthama to protect Vishnu’s last avatar, who is meant to appear when darkness covers the world. In the year 2898 AD, Earth is a harsh place ruled by Supreme Yaskin, who calls himself a god and controls access to a perfect land called the Complex. In this tough world, hope comes with Sumathi, also known as SUM-80, an unborn child believed to change the future of humanity.Star cast and future prospectsThe film stars Prabhas as the main character, along with Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, and Deepika Padukone. With Alia Bhatt likely joining the next part, the Kalki story will grow bigger and become one of the most awaited in Indian movies.