Overview

• Alia Bhatt was earlier in advanced talks, but recent reports say Sai Pallavi, frequently described as Ashwin’s original choice, has re-entered discussions.
• Sources say Bhatt has blocked bulk dates for Maddock Films’ Chamunda from March 2026, narrowing her availability for Ashwin’s project.
• Sai Pallavi remains occupied with Nitesh Tiwari’s two-part Ramayana and is expected to be free only after mid-2026.
• Outlets report that Ashwin is considering prioritising the woman-led film as Kalki Part 2 faces cast changes after Deepika Padukone’s reported exit.
• No casting or production schedule has been officially confirmed, though some reports point to a tentative late-2025 start.