A year after Kalki 2898 AD was released, director Nag Ashwin reflected on Deepika Padukone’s powerful performance, especially her iconic fire-walking scene. Sharing screen space with Prabhas and Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone delivered a performance lauded for its emotional intensity and quiet power. Kalki 2898 AD went on to become a massive box office success, ranking among India's all-time highest-grossing films.

Ashwin revealed that Deepika’s character was central to the story, saying, “If you remove her, there is no Kalki.” He recalled how the fire scene, though shot in a hurry, became magical. “When I saw her walk through that tunnel of fire, I knew it was special,” he said. The director believes that moment will remain iconic.

Deepika will return in the sequel, continuing her pivotal role in the Kalki saga.