June 7, 2025: Deepika Padukone is set to star in director Atlee’s upcoming film, currently titled AA22xA6. Production house Sun Pictures made the announcement on Saturday by sharing a short video of the actor in conversation with Atlee, followed by glimpses of her training for the role.
The video, shared on social media, includes sketches showing Deepika as a warrior character. She is seen rehearsing action scenes with a battle axe, under Atlee’s direction in a studio setup. The caption read, “The Queen marches to conquer! Welcome onboard @deepikapadukone. #TheFacesOfAA22xA6 #AA22xA6 – A Magnum Opus from Sun Pictures.”
This project marks Deepika’s latest signing after her recent exit from Spirit, a film directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga and starring Prabhas. Deepika had joined Spirit earlier this year but left in May. Reports suggested her decision was linked to disagreements over working hours and language.
Some reports claimed Deepika asked for an 8-hour workday and did not want to speak her lines in Telugu. The makers reportedly found these demands “unprofessional.” However, the 8-hour shift request received support online, especially given that Deepika recently became a mother.
Later, director Vanga accused Deepika of leaking the film’s story. Actor Triptii Dimri has since been cast in her place. The film has not yet started shooting.
Online Reactions Raise Questions about Deepika’s Telugu Project with Atlee
Soon after the AA22xA6 announcement, social media users began comparing the two projects. A Reddit user commented, “Vanga was not ok with her demands. But Atlee is ok with it. That’s the only difference.” Another added, “Doesn’t that just show Vanga was lying?”
While Deepika hasn’t responded to the Spirit controversy, her decision to join another major Telugu project has led many to question how the earlier narrative was framed.
With Atlee known for directing large-scale action dramas and Sun Pictures backing the project, AA22xA6 is expected to begin filming soon. Deepika’s role as a warrior signals a strong character, and early reactions to the concept video have been positive.
The film’s full cast and release timeline are yet to be announced.