Nag Ashwin Confirms Major Update on Kalki 2898 AD Sequel; Shooting Set to Begin This August

The excitement surrounding the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD continues to grow, and filmmaker Nag Ashwin has now shared a significant update that is sure to delight fans eagerly waiting for the next chapter of the futuristic epic.

During promotional events for his latest project Sing Geetham, Nag Ashwin confirmed that regular shooting for the much-awaited sequel is expected to commence either in August or September this year.

Speaking about the project’s progress, the director revealed that a substantial amount of groundwork has already been completed, allowing the production to move ahead at a much faster pace than the original film.

“We might start the regular shoot either in August or September. That’s the update for now. Hopefully, we will work for a long stretch and complete most of the filming. Most of it has already been prepped, and the writing is done, so it will be a much faster process,” Nag Ashwin said.

The announcement has generated renewed enthusiasm among fans of the blockbuster sci-fi franchise, which became one of Indian cinema’s biggest spectacles upon its release.

Nag Ashwin Addresses Alia Bhatt Rumours

The director also responded to recent speculation regarding Alia Bhatt’s reported involvement in the sequel.

Over the past few weeks, multiple reports suggested that the Bollywood actress had joined the cast and had already shot portions of her role in Hyderabad. Some rumours even claimed that she would replace Deepika Padukone’s character, Sumathi, in the sequel.

However, Nag Ashwin dismissed these reports, clarifying that no final decision has been announced regarding the casting of the crucial role.

“We need to announce who plays the Sumathi character in Kalki 2. As of now, everything is speculation only. The character will definitely be there because it is a very important part of the story,” he explained.

His statement has put an end, at least temporarily, to the growing rumours circulating across social media platforms.

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Deepika Padukone’s Exit Still a Talking Point

The casting discussion comes in the wake of the makers’ official announcement in September 2025 that Deepika Padukone would not be returning for the sequel.

At the time, the production team stated that both parties had mutually decided to part ways and emphasized that a project of Kalki’s scale required complete commitment from everyone involved.

The announcement surprised fans, especially considering Deepika’s pivotal role in the first installment.

Since then, speculation has continued regarding who will step into the important role for the sequel.

A Faster Road to Release

Industry reports indicate that the sequel is aiming for a December 2027 theatrical release, with principal photography expected to conclude by April next year.

With much of the screenplay already locked and extensive pre-production completed, the filmmakers appear confident about maintaining an efficient production schedule.

Backed by Vyjayanthi Movies, the sequel is expected to reunite key cast members including Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan, while expanding the ambitious mythology and futuristic universe established in the first film.

As anticipation continues to build, Nag Ashwin’s latest update signals that the next phase of Kalki 2898 AD is finally moving into full production mode, bringing audiences one step closer to revisiting one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious worlds.