"A very different Deepika......", "Me and Shah Rukh sir will definitely work on...": Atlee opens up

Filmmaker Atlee is riding high after the thunderous success of Jawan, a film that didn’t just rewrite box office records but also reshaped Shah Rukh Khan’s on-screen image for a new generation. In a recent chat with India Today, the director opened up about what lies ahead for him, touching upon Deepika Padukone, his much-awaited film with Allu Arjun, the future of Jawan, and rumours that refuse to die down.

Deepika Padukone: “She’s My Lucky Charm”

Atlee had nothing but praise for Deepika Padukone, with whom he previously collaborated on Jawan. Calling her his “lucky charm,” the director confirmed that she is part of his upcoming film with Allu Arjun, tentatively titled AA22XA6.

“Yes, she’s my lucky charm. This is my second film with Deepika, and she’s wonderful to work with. She’s just unbelievable,” Atlee said, clearly fond of their creative equation.

What has fans especially curious is his hint about seeing Deepika in a new light. He shared that this project marks her return to work after motherhood. “After motherhood, she’s starting this film, and you are going to see a very different Deepika for sure,” he added, sparking excitement about what kind of role she will be stepping into next.

While Atlee remained tight-lipped about plot details, he indicated that the preparation for the Allu Arjun starrer is underway and that the team is taking its time to get things right. Known for blending emotion, scale, and mass appeal, the director seems keen on crafting something that lives up to the expectations surrounding this high-profile collaboration.

“After motherhood, she’s starting this film, and you are going to see a very different Deepika for sure.”

- Atlee

Jawan 2, Shah Rukh Khan, and Rumour Control

Naturally, the conversation returned to Jawan and the burning question of a sequel. Atlee clarified that while a follow-up isn’t off the table, it won’t happen anytime soon. “I think me and Shah Rukh sir will definitely work on something, but Jawan 2, I personally feel, may happen some years later, not immediately,” he explained.

He also dismissed rumours about directing Don 3 or replacing Farhan Akhtar, calling them baseless. “No, no… that’s a rumour, nothing at all,” he said firmly.

For now, Atlee seems focused on moving forward rather than looking back.