Is Alia Bhatt really in Kalki 2898 AD sequel? Prabhas sparks speculation with praise for Alpha trailer

Hyderabad: Rumours surrounding Alia Bhatt's reported casting in Nag Ashwin's Kalki 2898 AD sequel have gained fresh momentum after the film's lead star Prabhas shared his appreciation for the trailer of her upcoming spy thriller Alpha.

Prabhas took to social media to praise the trailer of Alpha, starring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, calling it "super exciting" and wishing the team success ahead of its release. His post quickly caught the attention of fans, many of whom linked it to the ongoing speculation about Alia's reported entry into the Kalki universe.

Is Alia Bhatt really part of Kalki 2898 AD Part 2?

As of now, there is no official confirmation from Vyjayanthi Movies, director Nag Ashwin, or Alia Bhatt that she has joined the sequel.

Reports over the past few weeks have claimed that the actress has been roped in for a key but not replacement role in the Prabhas-led sci-fi franchise. Some reports even suggested that she had already completed a brief shooting schedule in Hyderabad. However, the filmmakers have remained silent, leaving the rumours unverified.

The speculation intensified after reports emerged that Deepika Padukone, who played SUM-80 in the first film, would not return for the sequel, prompting discussions about potential new additions to the cast. Several reports have maintained that Alia is not replacing Deepika's character, but could be playing a completely new role in the expanding cinematic universe.

What did Prabhas say?

Prabhas' latest social media post was focused entirely on Alpha. Congratulating Alia Bhatt and the film's team, he praised the trailer and expressed his excitement for its release.

Although the message made no reference to Kalki 2898 AD Part 2, fans were quick to interpret it as another sign that the two stars could soon share screen space in Nag Ashwin's ambitious franchise.

Why are fans excited?

If Alia Bhatt does join Kalki 2898 AD Part 2, it would mark her first on-screen collaboration with Prabhas, one of the most anticipated pairings in Indian cinema.

The sequel already features an ensemble cast led by Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan and other returning actors from the first installment. Principal photography is underway, with the film tentatively targeting a theatrical release in 2027, though the makers are yet to announce an official date.

For now, Alia's participation remains a matter of speculation. Until an official announcement is made by the production house or the filmmakers, reports linking the actress to Kalki 2898 AD Part 2 should be treated as unconfirmed.