After her ouster from 'Spirit', Deepika Padukone sealed for Atlee-Allu Arjun mega film?

Deepika Padukone is making headlines once again, this time for signing a high-profile Telugu film with director Atlee and actor Allu Arjun. The film, currently referred to as AA22×A6, marks her return to Telugu cinema following the release of Kalki 2898 AD. After months of internal discussions, the deal is now reportedly finalized.

This marks Deepika’s second collaboration with Atlee after their work together on Jawan. The upcoming project features her alongside Allu Arjun, Mrunal Thakur, and Janhvi Kapoor in leading roles. The casting process for other parts is currently ongoing, and the makers are moving swiftly toward finalizing the ensemble.

For Allu Arjun and Deepika, this is a long-awaited collaboration. Both had previously expressed mutual interest in working together, and this new venture presents the opportunity at scale. The film’s story unfolds in a parallel universe and is being prepared with heavy visual effects and a unique world-building approach. Sources suggest that Allu Arjun will take on a double role for the first time in his career.

Deepika is currently on a planned break from shooting due to maternity, and she has been selectively committing to major commercial projects for her return. She is also part of Shah Rukh Khan’s next action film, King, which went on floors recently. The Atlee project is likely to commence once her work on King is wrapped.

The film is being produced by Sun Pictures and will feature technical collaborations with international VFX companies. Principal photography is expected to start later this year, around mid or late summer.

Meanwhile, Deepika’s name has also been circulating in reports regarding her exit from Spirit, a film that was to be directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and star Prabhas. Various speculations cite creative and contractual disagreements, though there has been no official word from any of the involved parties. As it stands, Deepika’s professional calendar remains packed with marquee projects across industries.