The makers had previously announced Deepika Padukone’s exit from Kalki 2. Ever since, fans have been curious to know whether any other actor would replace Deepika and step in her shoes. While the makers haven’t confirmed it yet, reports state that Priyanka Chopra might be offered the role. Other actresses, including Alia Bhatt, Anushka Shetty and Sai Pallavi have also been said to be contenders for the role.

Reports also claim that Priyanka is being considered for the role for her strong global presence. However, neither the actress nor her team has commented on the speculations.

The makers had shared an official statement, opening up about Deepika’s exit. “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. And a film like @Kalki2898AD deserves that commitment and much more. We wish her the best with her future works,” it read.

In a Harper’s Bazaar interview, Deepika had opened up about how big-budget movies do not excite her as a professional. She said, “Because honestly, how much more fame, how much more success, how much more money? At this stage, it’s not about that anymore. It’s not about the Rs100-crore films, or even the Rs500- Rs600 crore ones.” She further added, “And that doesn’t excite me anymore. What excites me is empowering other talent. My team and I are now focused on that—enabling storytelling and supporting other creative minds, writers, directors, and even new producers. That’s what feels meaningful to me now.”

On the professional front, Priyanka is gearing up for the release of SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi. Deepika, on the other hand, is working on Siddharth Anand’s King.

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Saiyaara actors Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda have surpassed big names such as Aamir Khan and Rishab Shetty, securing the top two positions on IMDb’s Most Popular Indian Stars of 2025 list, after the huge success of their romantic drama.  

IMDb recently announced the most popular Indian stars of 2025, determined by page views from over 250 million monthly visitors globally and Ahaan and Aneet secured the top two positions.

In the list, Aamir Khan is positioned at number three, followed by Ishaan Khatter and Lakshya in the fourth and fifth spots, respectively. Rashmika Mandanna holds the sixth position, with Kalyani Priyadarshan at seventh. Triptii Dimri, Rukmini Vasanth, and Rishab Shetty complete the list, occupying the eighth, ninth, and tenth places.

Ahaan and Aneet are delighted to have secured the top positions and expressed their gratitude to Saiyaara director Mohit Suri for his confidence in their abilities. 

Ahaan shared, “This is deeply humbling for me. To be ranked No. 1 on the list with my first film is nothing short of a dream come true and a full circle Paulo Coelho moment. But truly, if anything, this recognition makes me a little more aware of the responsibility I have towards my craft, and at the same time, it excites me for what’s to come.” 

He added, “I would like to thank my director Mohit Suri for allowing me to add to his canvas. Whatever I did on screen was a reflection of his guidance and his genius… I look forward to returning soon with my second film, and this honour is motivation enough to try and deliver a performance that will resonate deeply.” 

Aneet expressed her gratitude, saying, “Saiyaara changed my life in ways I am only beginning to understand, and to know that people across countries and languages connected with my work means more to me than I can explain.” 

She added, “I am deeply grateful to everyone who found something to love in Vaani. Your warmth has made this moment possible for me. I want to thank Mohit Suri for seeing something in me before I saw it in myself. The faith in his eyes on set gave me a strange, steady courage. Saiyaara made me braver as an actor.” 

Also Read: Photos: Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda’s Sweet Fan Moment Goes Viral

Palak Muchhal recently sat with Filmfare for a heart-to-heart conversation about her career, family life and more. As her brother Palash Muchhal was recently admitted to the hospital, amidst ongoing wedding celebrations, the singer opened up about the tough times that her family has been facing. She also shared that both the families, which includes cricketer Smriti Mandhana’s parents, are facing troubling days. However, Palak noted that the families are trying to spread positivity.

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When asked about their way of dealing with the situation, Palak said, “I think the families have been through a very tough time. Like you just said, I would just want to repeat that we would like to believe in positivity at this time. We would like to spread positivity as much as we can. We are also trying to stay strong.”

For those unaware, Palash and Smriti’s wedding festivities were halted as the latter’s father was rushed to Sangli hospital after suffering severe chest pain. This led to the postponement of the wedding, but several reports state that the wedding may happen soon.

Now, Smriti’s father has also been discharged and declared stable by the doctors. Moreover, the doctors found no blockages, easing concerns about his cardiac health. The family is yet to announce the revised date. Previously, Smriti’s business manager, Tuhin Mishra had stated that it was Smriti’s decision to postpone the marriage indefinitely.

Palash’s mother, Amita Muchhal, had also stated, “Palash is extremely close to him… when he fell ill, Palash immediately insisted the wedding be postponed.” Previously, Palak had urged the media and well-wishers to respect her family’s privacy amid ongoing public scrutiny.

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