As June 2025 unfolds, Deepika Padukone continues to redefine her cinematic journey—not merely as a Bollywood A‑lister, but as a pan‑Indian superstar embracing bold, global-scale roles. Following the release of the sci‑fi epic Kalki 2898 AD, where she surprised audiences with a deeply emotional, onscreen pregnancy, Deepika finds herself at a pivotal crossroads. Balancing motherhood with high‑stakes filmmaking, she is poised to return with the Kalki sequel, while simultaneously embracing a groundbreaking South–Bollywood collaboration alongside Allu Arjun and director Atlee.
Despite recent whispers of her stepping away from certain projects due to personal commitments, industry insiders assure that she remains a key player in Nag Ashwin’s vision for Kalki 2. In this post, we dive into her upcoming slate, explore behind‑the‑scenes choices, and capture what lies ahead for one of India’s most dynamic screen icons.
Table of Contents
1. Kalki 2898 AD Sequel: The Saga Continues
Deepika earned praise for portraying a pregnant mother in the futuristic Kalki 2898 AD—even humorously saying, “Why not carry the baby bump a few more months?”. With Kalki 2 already in pre‑production and approximately one‑third shot alongside Part 1 , her role remains crucial: “If you remove her character, there is no story. No Kalki,” confirmed a producer
However, reports emerged that Deepika might opt out, citing her request for an 8‑hour workday post‑motherhood—highlighting the logistical challenge on a mega-budget set . Yet, the latest clarifications assure her continued involvement, despite earlier rumors . Fans now await more updates, as production likely shifts to early 2026.
2. AA22xA6
In what’s shaping up to be cinema’s next big spectacle, Deepika has signed on for a mass-appeal collaboration with Telugu superstar Allu Arjun and director Atlee—tentatively titled AA22xA6. Designed as a visual extravaganza with top-tier VFX, this cross‑industry project aims to blend North and South Indian strengths. Peers like Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Ranveer Singh have celebrated DP’s inclusion, calling it a “pan‑India queen” move . With Deepika brandishing a spear in the first look, expectations are high for an action‑drama spectacle to bridge cultural and cinematic landscapes .
3. King
King marks the sixth collaboration between Deepika Padukone and Shah Rukh Khan, a pairing that has consistently delivered box office hits. Directed by Siddharth Anand, the film also features notable actors such as Abhay Verma, Arshad Warsi, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Abhishek Bachchan. Adding to the excitement, King will introduce Shah Rukh Khan’s daughter, Suhana Khan, making her theatrical debut. This film is expected to blend action, drama, and family dynamics, continuing the legacy of successful partnerships between Khan and Padukone, who have previously starred together in iconic films like Om Shanti Om, Happy New Year, Chennai Express, Pathaan, and Jawan. Fans are eager to see this dynamic duo back on screen, promising a cinematic experience filled with charisma and intensity.
4. Pathaan 2
Following the massive success of Pathaan in 2023, Deepika Padukone is set to reprise her role in Pathaan 2, the sequel that promises to elevate the spy thriller genre further. The original film, part of Yash Raj Films’ Spy Universe, was a blockbuster hit, featuring a stellar cast including John Abraham, Dimple Kapadia, and Ashutosh Rana. Deepika’s portrayal of an ISI agent was widely praised for its depth and intensity. The sequel is reportedly being shot in Chile, adding an international flavor to the high-stakes espionage narrative. With Shah Rukh Khan returning as the titular character, Pathaan 2 is poised to be one of the biggest releases of 2025, blending action, suspense, and star power in a thrilling package.
5. Brahmastra 2
In Brahmastra: Part One – Shiva, Deepika Padukone made a memorable special appearance as Amrita, the mother of Ranbir Kapoor’s character Shiva. Fans can look forward to her reprising this role in Brahmastra 2, a film that director Ayan Mukerji has been passionately developing for years. Ranbir Kapoor recently revealed that pre-production for the sequel will commence soon after the release of War 2, signaling a continuation of the ambitious fantasy saga. Brahmastra 2 promises to delve deeper into the mystical universe, combining mythology, romance, and cutting-edge visual effects. Deepika’s involvement adds emotional depth and star appeal, making this sequel a highly anticipated event for fans of Indian fantasy cinema.
Balancing Stardom and Motherhood
Deepika embraced motherhood in September 2024, and in doing so, shifted her professional priorities . She has openly stated her intent to devote time to her daughter Dua, even if it means delaying high-profile commitments . This conscious choice underpins her recent scheduling decisions—requesting shorter work hours and carefully selecting her roles. While some entertainers labeled her demands controversial, others have lauded her for advocating sensible work-life balance for new mothers in film
FAQs
Q1. Is Deepika confirmed for Kalki 2 despite recent controversies?
A. Yes. Reliable sources and producer statements confirm she remains part of the sequel, despite earlier rumors of departure .
Q2. What’s the status of Deepika’s South‑Bollywood film with Allu Arjun?
A. She’s officially signed for the project directed by Atlee. While still tentatively titled AA22xA6, it’s poised to be a visual spectacle with extensive VFX, projected for pan‑India release .
