Deepika Padukone Exits Kalki 2 After Spirit: Shorter Work Hours Spark Controversy

Entertainment News: Bollywood was rocked by reports that Deepika Padukone, celebrated for her role as Sumathi in Kalki 2898 AD, may be dropped from its sequel, Kalki 2, following her controversial exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit. Sources cited by Bollywood.mobi claim that Deepika’s demand for shorter working hours, stemming from her new responsibilities as a mother to daughter Dua, born in September 2024, has led to tensions with the Kalki 2 team. The news, yet to be officially confirmed, has ignited heated discussions among fans and industry insiders, raising questions about the balance between personal priorities and professional commitments in Bollywood’s high-stakes environment. Deepika’s potential departure from two major projects marks a pivotal moment in her illustrious career.

Tensions Over Work Hours

Deepika Padukone’s exit from Spirit, a high-profile film starring Prabhas, was already making waves when reports surfaced about her strained relationship with the Kalki 2 team. According to industry sources, Deepika, who welcomed her first child with husband Ranveer Singh, requested a modified shooting schedule to accommodate her parenting responsibilities. This included shorter workdays and flexibility to prioritize family time, a stance that reportedly clashed with the demanding production timelines of Kalki 2, directed by Nag Ashwin. The sci-fi sequel, expected to begin filming later in 2025, requires extensive schedules due to its complex visual effects and ensemble cast, including Amitabh Bachchan and Prabhas.

Deepika Padukone Exits Kalki 2

The Kalki 2 team, backed by Vyjayanthi Movies, allegedly found Deepika’s demands challenging to accommodate, given her pivotal role in the narrative. Sources suggest that the producers are considering either reducing her character’s screen time or recasting the role entirely, a move that has shocked fans who lauded her performance in the original film. This follows a similar fallout with Spirit, where Vanga reportedly parted ways with Deepika over scheduling conflicts. The controversies highlight the pressures faced by actresses navigating motherhood in an industry known for grueling schedules, sparking debates about whether Bollywood is adapting to the evolving needs of its stars.

Industry and Fan Reactions

The news of Deepika’s potential exit from Kalki 2 has divided opinions. Fans, who celebrated her portrayal of Sumathi in Kalki 2898 AD, have taken to social media to express disappointment, with many urging the makers to find a middle ground. Hashtags like #DeepikaInKalki2 have trended on X, reflecting her strong fanbase. However, some industry observers argue that the producers’ stance is justified, citing the logistical challenges of accommodating individual schedules in big-budget films. Others see this as a broader issue, pointing to Bollywood’s lack of flexibility for working mothers, a topic Deepika has championed in the past through her advocacy for mental health and gender equality.

Deepika Padukone dropped amid Post Motherhood Demands

The controversy also underscores the scrutiny Deepika faces as one of Bollywood’s biggest stars. Her decision to prioritize family has been praised by some as a bold stand, while others speculate it could impact her future roles in high-profile projects. As the industry awaits official confirmation from Deepika or the Kalki 2 team, the episode highlights the delicate balance between personal life and professional demands, prompting calls for more inclusive practices in Bollywood’s filmmaking ecosystem