Bollywood fans have a reason to celebrate. Deepika Padukone has officially announced her return alongside Shah Rukh Khan in the upcoming film King. The actress took to Instagram on Saturday to share the news, posting a heartfelt message and a close-up photo of her holding Shah Rukh’s hand. This marks their sixth collaboration, reigniting one of Bollywood’s most beloved on-screen pairings.
Deepika And SRK Reunion After 18 Years
Deepika Padukone’s emotional post reflected on her journey with Shah Rukh Khan, which began in 2007 with Om Shanti Om. That film not only launched her career but also established a chemistry that audiences have cherished ever since. She wrote about the first lesson SRK taught her: that the experience of making a film and the people involved matter more than its success. That philosophy, she said, has guided her choices ever since.
Their cinematic journey includes hits like Chennai Express (2013), Happy New Year (2014), Pathaan (2023), and Jawan (2023). With King, directed by Siddharth Anand, the duo is set to create magic once again.
Star-Studded Cast Joins the Ride
King isn’t just about Deepika and Shah Rukh. The film boasts a powerhouse ensemble featuring Suhana Khan, Jackie Shroff, Anil Kapoor, Rani Mukerji, Abhishek Bachchan, Arshad Warsi, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Abhay Verma. With Siddharth Anand at the helm, expectations are sky-high. The film promises a blend of action, emotion, and star power that could redefine Bollywood blockbusters.
Deepika’s Exit from Kalki Sequel
Interestingly, Deepika’s announcement comes shortly after Vyjayanthi Movies confirmed her exit from the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD. The production house released a statement citing “lack of creative alignment and mutual understanding” as the reason. While the split appears amicable, it has sparked curiosity among fans who were eager to see her reprise her role in the sci-fi franchise.
Deepika starred in the original Kalki 2898 AD alongside Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan. Directed by Nag Ashwin, the film was a massive success, grossing around ₹1100 crore globally. It was praised for its groundbreaking visual effects and futuristic storytelling.
Despite stepping away from Kalki, Deepika’s calendar remains packed. Apart from King, she is also set to star opposite Allu Arjun in Atlee’s upcoming project, tentatively titled AA22xA6. This marks another exciting crossover between Bollywood and South Indian cinema, further expanding Deepika’s pan-India appeal.
As soon as Deepika shared her post, fans flooded social media with love and excitement. Many expressed joy at seeing her reunite with Shah Rukh Khan, while others praised her decision to prioritize meaningful collaborations over commercial pressure. The hashtag #King began trending within hours, signaling strong anticipation for the film.
Deepika Padukone’s confirmation for King not only revives a cherished Bollywood pairing but also signals a new chapter in her career. While her exit from Kalki 2898 AD may have disappointed some fans, her upcoming projects promise fresh energy and cinematic brilliance. With Shah Rukh Khan by her side and Siddharth Anand directing, King is poised to be one of the most awaited films of the year.
