News has emerged regarding a significant change in the casting of a major South Indian film, with Alia Bhatt no longer attached to the project. This development follows earlier reports of Deepika Padukone’s altered professional commitments, which have prompted scrutiny within the South Indian film industry. The film, which was to potentially feature Alia Bhatt in a lead role, is now in talks with Sai Pallavi. This shift appears to be a result of the filmmaker, Nag Ashwin, re-evaluating plans for his female-centric project. Initially, Alia Bhatt was in discussions for the lead role. Sai Pallavi, who was the director’s first choice, may now get the opportunity. Alia Bhatt has scheduled commitments to Maddock Films’ ‘Chamunda’ for March 2026. Sai Pallavi’s availability is contingent on the completion of Nitesh Tiwari’s ‘Ramayana’, which is expected to conclude by mid-2026. This may allow her to participate in Nag Ashwin’s film before he proceeds with ‘Kalki 2’.
