Deepika Padukone-Kalki 2 Row: Bhumi Pednekar and Tabu React to ‘Double Salary, 5-Hour Shoot’ Demands

Deepika Padukone’s sudden exit from Kalki 2 has left fans and industry insiders surprised, with several reports citing disagreements between the actress and the film’s makers.

The controversy intensified after a video of Aamir Khan discussing actor payments went viral, and co-stars Bhumi Pednekar and Tabu have now reacted to the ongoing debate.

Bhumi Pednekar and Tabu Weigh In

Bhumi Pednekar responded to reports suggesting Deepika’s exit was due to her high demands. According to Telugu portal The Aakashavaani, Deepika allegedly asked for double the fee she earned for the first Kalki film. The report also claimed she requested luxurious treatment for her team and a strict five-hour workday. Bhumi reacted by ‘liking’ both this news report and Deepika’s Instagram post announcing the start of her shoot for King with Shah Rukh Khan.

Tabu also made her stance known online by ‘liking’ a post titled “Reason Why Deepika Padukone Got Kicked Out From Kalki And Spirit,” which featured Aamir Khan explaining that producers are not responsible for paying an actor’s entourage.

Reasons Behind the Exit

Reports from Bollywood Hungama suggest Deepika requested a 25% fee hike along with a seven-hour work shift. The producers reportedly tried to negotiate, but no compromise was reached. Deepika’s entourage reportedly included 25 members, and she is said to have asked for five-star accommodation and full reimbursement for her team’s meals. The makers requested her to reduce the team size and relax some demands, but she reportedly remained firm.

Official Statement from Kalki 2 Makers

The production house confirmed Deepika’s exit on their official X handle, emphasizing the importance of commitment to the project:

“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.”