Sai Pallavi Only Under Consideration for Kalki 2898 AD

Speculation surrounding the casting of the female lead in the sequel to Nag Ashwin’s sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD has intensified, with fresh reports suggesting that Sai Pallavi has not yet been finalised to replace Deepika Padukone as Sumati (SUM-80) .

While rumours recently pointed to Sai Pallavi stepping into the pivotal role, a production representative from Vyjayanthi Movies has clarified that no casting decision has been taken so far. Quoted by Hindustan Times , the representative said the makers are considering Sai Pallavi , but stressed that nothing has been finalised and urged audiences to wait for an official announcement .

“Nothing has been finalised yet. The makers are looking at Sai Pallavi to play SUM-80 after Deepika’s exit, as they feel she could be a perfect fit. However, all these are just rumours at this stage,” the source said.

Deepika Padukone’s exit from the Kalki 2898 AD sequel had earlier sparked widespread discussion, especially after her departure from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit in September 2025 . Reports suggest that despite completing nearly 20 days of shooting , she exited the project after salary renegotiations failed , though no official confirmation has been issued by the actor.

In Kalki 2898 AD , SUM-80 (Sumati) is a pregnant lab subject of Project K and the prophesied mother of Kalki , making her central to the film’s mythological narrative. After escaping Supreme Yaskin’s lab , played by Kamal Haasan , Sumati comes under the protection of Amitabh Bachchan’s Ashwatthama . Actor Sobhita Dhulipala had dubbed for Deepika in the Telugu version of the first film.

The sequel, which also stars Prabhas , is expected to go on floors later this year, with a stronger focus on Bhairava and the Karna rebirth arc . As of now, the makers continue to maintain silence, keeping fans waiting for clarity on one of the franchise’s most crucial casting decisions.