Is Priyanka Chopra replacing Deepika in 'Kalki' sequel?
What's the story
Priyanka Chopra Jonas is reportedly in talks to replace Deepika Padukone in Kalki 2898 AD sequel. However, her high fees and demand for flexible working hours are causing delays, reported Bollywood Hungama. A source told the portal that "the remuneration is a bigger problem." The makers are reportedly also considering Alia Bhatt, Sai Pallavi, and Anushka Shetty for the role.
Flexibility issue
The flexibility issue is not 'insurmountable'
The source added, "Priyanka requires flexibility regarding her time and schedule in order to fulfill her mom duties." "However, this is not an insurmountable issue as Priyanka is agreeable to traveling with her daughter to locations." The report also stated that the makers want an actor who matches Prabhas's star power. An official announcement about the new female lead is awaited.
Exit announcement
Padukone's exit and the reasons behind it
Earlier this year, the makers announced Padukone's exit from Kalki 2898 AD on X (formerly Twitter). The statement read, "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."
Fee hike
Padukone's demand for fee hike and work shift
A report by Bollywood Hungama earlier stated that the makers dropped Padukone because she was demanding a 25% fee hike and an eight-hour work shift. The report added that the makers tried to negotiate these two demands with her, but a deal could not be reached. Later, while defending her eight-hour work shift on CNBC-TV18, Padukone had said, "I don't even know what to call it, but I am someone who has always fought my battles silently."