Deepika Padukone is all set to start shooting with Allu Arjun for Atlee’s action entertainer, putting rumours of a reduced role to rest.
Published: October 1, 2025 5:36 PM IST
Deepika Padukone has once again become the centre of Bollywood and Tollywood chatter following her exit from ‘Spirit’ and ‘Kalki 2’. The announcements sparked widespread speculation, especially after she confirmed her ongoing shoot with Shah Rukh Khan for King. At the same time, Deepika is also slated to star in Atlee’s action entertainer with Allu Arjun, currently referred to as AA22xA6.
Recent rumours suggested that Deepika’s role in Atlee’s film had been reduced, allegedly due to her preference for shorter work hours. However, a fresh update from Mid-Day has set the record straight. A source clarified, “There is no truth to rumours that Deepika’s screen time has been reduced. Her role has not changed from what she was offered when she came on board in June. She has a fierce part, which is essential to the first and second acts of the narrative.”
When will Deepika shoot with Allu Arjun?
According to reports, Deepika has blocked her calendar from late October through the end of December for the project. The initial schedule will focus on establishing her character, followed by high-octane action sequences in November. By December, the production is expected to move to the UAE, “where Allu Arjun and Deepika will film a crucial mid-film twist and emotional scenes,” the source added.
What sparked the rumours of a reduced role?
The speculation around Deepika’s supposedly trimmed role surfaced shortly after her exit from Kalki 2. Industry insiders suggested that the actress had requested a 25 per cent hike in her fee, along with a cap of seven-hour shooting days—a demand reportedly not accepted by the makers despite negotiations. Earlier this year, Deepika had also exited Sandep Reddy Vanga’s Spirit, reportedly for similar reasons.
Since becoming a mother, rumours about her preference for shorter working hours have frequently surfaced. Yet, her commitment to Atlee’s project appears unaffected, reassuring fans and industry insiders alike.
What makes AA22xA6 special?
Interestingly, AA22xA6 marks the first collaboration between Atlee and Allu Arjun. Initially, the project was rumoured to be a two-hero story, but it has now been clarified that Allu Arjun will be seen in dual roles, adding a layer of intrigue to this high-profile entertainer. Deepika’s presence in a pivotal role further raises expectations, with the film promising action, emotion, and drama in equal measure.
Highlights:
- Deepika Padukone’s role in Atlee’s film remains unchanged, dismissing rumours of a reduced screen time.
- She has blocked her calendar from October to December for shooting with Allu Arjun, including UAE sequences.
- AA22xA6 will feature Allu Arjun in dual roles, making this collaboration with Atlee even more anticipated.
