Actor Deepika Padukone withdraws from Kalki 2 project allegedly due to increased fees and a large entourage causing issues.
In a surprising turn of events, Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone will not be a part of the sequel to the critically acclaimed film Kalki 2898 AD, titled Kalki 2. The production team announced this decision following a series of financial disputes and demands made by Deepika and her entourage.
Reports suggest that the expenses for Deepika's entourage, estimated to be around 25 people, have been a significant financial burden for the production team. The entourage requires five-star accommodation and food services, adding to the overall production costs.
Despite the producers' requests for Deepika to reduce the size of her team or negotiate the costs, she refused. This issue of additional expenses for actors' entourages is reportedly a common concern among Hindi producers.
Deepika and her team also refused to adjust on either the pay or the work hours. The actress had made certain demands for Kalki 2, including a 25% pay hike and a 7-hour workday. The producers, considering that Prabhas had not asked for an increment in fees, attempted to negotiate finances.
However, the producers' efforts to find a compromise were unsuccessful. The production team expressed that Kalki 2 deserves a strong commitment from all parties involved, and the potential budget increase due to shorter workdays, especially for a VFX-heavy film like Kalki 2, was a concern.
Director Nag Ashwin, who helmed Kalki 2898 AD, had wanted Deepika to return for the sequel. Deepika's performance in the original film received positive reviews, and she played a significant role in the movie's success.
The producers offered Deepika a luxury vanity van for rest in exchange for longer shooting hours, but she refused. This decision, coupled with the financial disputes, led to the decision to part ways.
Despite the disagreements, the production team has made efforts to enhance security and manage logistics more efficiently by reducing the number of companions to around 25 for the sequel of Kalki 2898 AD.
An insider raised the question, "Why should the producers pay for the stay and food of an actor, over and above the fees?" as the issue of entourage expenses continues to be a topic of discussion within the industry.
As the production team moves forward with the sequel, they are actively seeking a replacement for Deepika's role. The search for a suitable actress who can deliver a powerful performance and commit to the project's demands is underway.
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