Overview
- Vyjayanthi Movies confirmed her departure on September 18, saying they were unable to find a partnership.
- Multiple reports say she had already shot nearly 20 days for the sequel, with some portions pre‑filmed during Part 1 as indicated by director Nag Ashwin.
- Reports describe a requested fee hike of more than 25% along with limits on daily hours and accommodation for a 25‑person crew, which producers deemed untenable.
- A source said producers proposed longer hours with a luxury vanity for rest, but she declined, and production sources say the date‑clash explanation holds no merit.
- Padukone has shifted to other projects, including King with Shah Rukh Khan now filming and an Atlee film with Allu Arjun in development.