Nag Ashwin, who is currently reworking the casting of Kalki 2 following Deepika Padukone’s exit, is reportedly considering reviving his woman-centric film in the meantime.
Alia Bhatt has already committed bulk dates to Maddock Films’ Chamunda from March 2026, leaving little scope for her to take on Ashwin’s project.
Industry chatter now suggests that the filmmaker has resumed discussions with Sai Pallavi, who has long been his preferred choice to lead the action drama.
A source close to the production revealed, “Nag never abandoned the idea of the woman-led film. It was quietly on the backburner for most of 2025. With the latest developments around Kalki 2, bringing this project forward seems possible.”
Pallavi’s availability, however, depends on her current commitments. She is engaged in the two-part Ramayana saga and is expected to wrap the second instalment by mid-2026.
The source added, “If the dates align, she could step into Nag’s film before he returns to Kalki 2.”
Insiders caution that nothing is confirmed yet, as schedules and casting decisions remain fluid. For now, speculation is rife over whether Sai Pallavi will replace Alia Bhatt in what could become one of Nag Ashwin’s most ambitious ventures.
