MUMBAI: The film industry is currently buzzing with exciting casting speculation as reports suggest actress Deepika Padukone has been approached for the female lead in Vicky Kaushal’s ambitious mythological epic, Mahavatar.
If finalised, this partnership would mark the first full-fledged, highly anticipated collaboration between the two powerhouses of Indian cinema, leaving fans and industry observers hugely excited at the prospect of seeing them together for the first time.
(ALSO READ: Deepika Padukone reflects on early career choices: ‘I rejected many films, it all felt like a blur’)
A source reported, “The team has been looking for someone who can bring gravitas and emotional depth to the role written opposite Parashurama. Deepika fits that space perfectly. Conversations have begun, but they are still at an early stage. She is among the top names the studio has engaged with." Furthermore, while the central narrative focuses on Parashurama, the female lead in Mahavatar boasts a strong character arc.
The source added, “Amar Kaushik has been clear from the beginning that the character must have equal footing in the narrative."
In a display of dedicated commitment to the project, the actor is reportedly planning a significant lifestyle change.
According to sources close to the project, Vicky Kaushal and director Amar Kaushik have decided to give up alcohol and non-vegetarian food for the duration of the film’s intense production.
This transformation is intended to provide the necessary focus and to show spiritual respect for the part of Lord Parashurama.
A film like Mahavatar requires complete focus, and the duo have decided to give it all to make it a pure spectacle for the cinema-going audience," stated one insider.
It was added that while Amar Kaushik has already adopted the stricter diet, Vicky Kaushal is set to do so once the mammoth shooting schedule for his other major film, Love And War, is completed.
Last year, Vicky Kaushal shared the first look of Mahavatar, which immediately went viral. Sharing the concept art, the actor wrote, “Dinesh Vijan brings to life the story of the eternal warrior of Dharma! Vicky Kaushal stars as Chiranjeevi Parashurama in #Mahavatar, directed by Amar Kaushik. Coming to cinemas – Christmas 2026!" Dinesh Vijan produces the film, which will be directed by Amar Kaushik, the acclaimed filmmaker behind Stree 2.
Currently, Vicky Kaushal is engrossed in the shooting of Love And War, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, alongside Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt.
Reports suggest Vicky has allotted around 200 days for this film, with shooting expected to continue until the third quarter of 2025, ahead of its scheduled March 2026 release.
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(ALSO READ: Vicky Kaushal clarifies first meeting with Katrina Kaif: ‘It didn’t happen where people think’ )
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CREDIT: NEWS 18
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