The hit Indian science fiction film “Kalki 2898 AD” is set to expand its universe with a sequel and new related projects, according to producers Swapna and Priyanka Dutt. “Kalki 2898” earned over $140 million globally since its release in 2024, making it the highest-grossing Indian movie that year.
Filming for the sequel is currently 35-40% complete, and the producers aim to finish by the end of 2025. “The first part did very well in India, North America, the UK and other areas,” said Swapna Dutt. “We want it to reach more audiences before the sequel comes out.”
In addition to a follow-up movie, the sisters plan to develop what they call the “Kalki Cinematic Universe” with multiple connected films. While not directly copying global franchises like Marvel, Swapna acknowledged the success of such properties provided learning experiences.
With a reported budget of 600 crore rupees (around $72 million), “Kalki 2898 AD” featured stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, Deepika Padukone and Disha Patani. This wide appeal made it one of India’s most expensive films ever. It also stands as the third highest-grossing Telugu movie, behind only S.S. Rajamouli’s blockbuster “RRR.”
While expanding their filmmaking ventures, the Dutts are using lessons from “Kalki 2898 AD.” Swapna reflected that the earlier production required managing 1,000 details daily, compared to 20-30 items for current projects. Their father Chalasani Aswani Dutt’s company Vyjayanthi Movies produced “Kalki,” where Priyanka’s husband Nag Ashwin served as director.
The sisters cite both challenges and strengths from their close-knit family dynamic in the industry. “This relationship gives me strength, as filmmaking involves risk, especially on this scale,” Swapna said. Looking ahead, they see potential for Indian cinema globally as audiences open to various cultures and languages. As long as quality story and acting are present, “the sky is the limit,” Swapna believes.
