Is Alia Bhatt the new Sumathi in Kalki 2898 AD after Deepika Padukone’s exit? Here’s what we know

After the success of Kalki 2898 AD, the sequel has already started making headlines, this time for its casting shake-up. Reports suggest that Alia Bhatt may replace Deepika Padukone as Sumathi in the upcoming installment of the sci-fi epic starring Prabhas.

According to Lets Cinema, Alia is currently the top contender for the role, though the makers have not released an official statement yet. The speculation gained momentum soon after the production team confirmed Deepika’s departure, citing challenges in forming a long-term partnership.

The official statement from the makers read, “This is to officially announce that Deepika Padukone will not be a part of the upcoming sequel of Kalki 2898 AD. 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, and a film like Kalki 2898 AD deserves that commitment and much more. We wish her the best with her future works.”

Deepika’s exit has surprised fans, given the scale of the first film and her central role as Sumathi. Alia Bhatt, if confirmed, would bring her own style to the character, continuing the saga’s emotional and mythological arc.

Directed by Nag Ashwin, Kalki 2898 AD begins after the Kurukshetra War, where Ashwatthama is tasked by Lord Krishna to guard Lord Vishnu’s final avatar in the future age of Kali Yuga. Thousands of years later, in 2898 AD, the world is ruled by a self-proclaimed god, Supreme Yaskin, whose oppressive reign pushes humanity into despair. Amid this chaos, a glimmer of hope rises through Sumathi, who carries a divine unborn child destined to restore balance.

The first part starred Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, and Deepika Padukone. If Alia officially joins the cast, the sequel is expected to bring fresh energy to the universe while carrying forward its mythic storyline.