Nag Ashwin confirms the much-awaited sequel to his sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD will start principal photography in October, aiming to wrap the shoot by mid-2027. Fresh off National Film Awards wins for popular film and special effects, he says the recognition is an energy boost, validating the movie’s mainstream appeal and global connection while fans eagerly await the dystopian saga’s continuation.
Filmmaker Nag Ashwin has set his sights firmly on the next chapter of his blockbuster sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD. The director has confirmed that the highly anticipated sequel to the 2024 film—headlined by Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, and Amitabh Bachchan—will officially begin principal photography in October.
Ashwin shared the update while speaking to India Today following the National Film Awards ceremony in Gujarat, where Kalki 2898 AD was honoured with Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and Best Special Effects.
“We’re starting the shoot regularly from next month and, hopefully, it should be done with the shoot by mid next year,” the filmmaker told the publication when asked about an update on the sequel.
Reflecting on the recognition at the National Film Awards, Ashwin noted that the accolades served as a much-needed "energy boost" for the entire team after years of relentless work bringing the ambitious project to life.
“I think it's the long journey of making the film from a blank piece of paper to what it turned out on screen on the first day of release. And the fact that it connected with the whole country and so many parts of the world, I think it's the journey that first comes to mind."
The filmmaker also told the publication how he approached the film as a mainstream entertainer as he "didn't want to make it for a niche audience".
“I think the box office result was a validation, and kids coming up to me even two years after the release and saying they are eagerly waiting for Part 2 is the validation. The National Award is definitely a good energy boost for us to keep working in the right direction," he added.
Set in a stark dystopian future in the post-apocalyptic city of Kashi, the first installment follows a band of rebels and unexpected allies on a mission to protect SUM-80, a lab subject carrying an unborn child believed to be Kalki—the final incarnation of Lord Vishnu.