Just days after her unexpected exit from the Kalki 2898 AD sequel, Deepika Padukone has shifted the spotlight with a powerful Instagram post, confirming her role in Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming film King. The post, which many online have interpreted as a graceful yet pointed response to the recent controversy, features a close-up shot of Deepika holding SRK’s hand. Her caption read:
“The very first lesson he taught me almost 18 years ago while filming Om Shanti Om was that the experience of making a movie, and the people you make it with, matter far more than its success.”
Reddit users were quick to catch the timing and tone. On a thread dissecting the post, one user wrote, “She called in the final boss to end all the PR drama,” referring to SRK. Others praised the elegance of her response. “She showed them how to respond with grace and dignity. The subtle flex—chef’s kiss,” wrote another. Comments ranged from admiration—“Deepika ate with this post”—to clever digs at her former collaborators: “Deepika: 2, Tollywood: 0.”
The post is widely seen as a veiled response to Kalki 2898 AD producers Vyjayanthi Movies, who recently stated they had “parted ways” with Deepika after “careful consideration,” citing the film’s need for a “higher level of commitment.”
The fallout triggered speculation about scheduling conflicts or creative differences. But with one powerful photo and a nostalgic quote, Deepika appears to have taken control of the narrative.
Also Read: Deepika Padukone’s Shocking Exit from Kalki 2: Is Her Demand for Shorter Work Hours the Real Reason?
Her upcoming film King will be directed by Siddharth Anand and features a stellar cast, including Suhana Khan, Jackie Shroff, Anil Kapoor, Rani Mukerji, Abhishek Bachchan, Arshad Warsi, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Abhay Verma.
Deepika is also set to star opposite Allu Arjun in director Atlee’s upcoming action project, tentatively titled AA22xA6.
