View source for Kalki 2898 AD



{{Use Indian English|date=February 2026}}
{{Infobox film
| image          = Kalki 2898 AD.jpg
| alt            = Theatrical release poster
| caption        = Theatrical release poster
| director       = [[Nag Ashwin]]
| writer         = Nag Ashwin
{{Infobox | decat = yes | child = yes
  | label1 = Dialogues by
  | data1  = [[Sai Madhav Burra]]
}}
| producer       = [[C. Aswini Dutt]]
| starring       = {{plain list|
* [[Amitabh Bachchan]]
* [[Kamal Haasan]]
* [[Prabhas]]
* [[Deepika Padukone]]
* [[Disha Patani]]
}}
| cinematography = [[Djordje Stojiljkovic]]
| editing        = [[Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao]]
| music          = [[Santhosh Narayanan]]
| studio         = [[Vyjayanthi Movies]]
| distributor    = [[#Distribution|see below]]
| country        = India
| language       = Telugu
| released       = {{Film date|df=y|2024|06|27}}
| runtime        = 181 minutes<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalki 2898 AD |url=https://www.ecinepramaan.gov.in/cbfc/?a=Certificate_Detail&i=100070292400000552 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20240822030004/https://www.ecinepramaan.gov.in/cbfc/?a=Certificate_Detail&i=100070292400000552 |archive-date=22 August 2024 |access-date=22 August 2024 |website=ecinepramaan.gov.in}}</ref><br/>175 minutes (trimmed version)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Prime Video: Kalki 2898 AD |url=https://www.primevideo.com/detail/0KQU5V0T0FGF8L5L368NKW6INT/ |access-date=16 August 2025|website=Amazon Prime Video}}</ref>
| budget         = {{INR|600 crore}}{{efn|Multiple references:<ref>{{Cite news |date=1 July 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD day 4 box office collection: Prabhas-starrer beats SRK's Jawan, mints ₹555 crore worldwide |url=https://www.cnbctv18.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-day-4-box-office-prabhas-starrer-beats-jawan-mints-%E2%82%B9555-crore-19436481.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240702040008/https://www.cnbctv18.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-day-4-box-office-prabhas-starrer-beats-jawan-mints-%E2%82%B9555-crore-19436481.htm |archive-date=2 July 2024 |access-date=1 July 2024 |work=[[CNBC]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=26 June 2023 |title=Project K: From Prabhas to Deepika Padukone, here's how much actors are getting paid |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/nag-ashwins-project-k-from-prabhas-to-deepika-heres-how-much-actors-are-getting-paid-1227370 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230626142436/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/nag-ashwins-project-k-from-prabhas-to-deepika-heres-how-much-actors-are-getting-paid-1227370 |archive-date=26 June 2023 |access-date=26 June 2023 |website=[[Pinkvilla]] |language=en |quote=Reportedly, 600 crores is being spent to make this multi-starrer film.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Prakash |first=B. V. S. |date=10 June 2024 |title=Whopping Budget for Kalki 2898 AD in Two Parts |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/prabhass-kalki-mounted-on-rs-700-cr-budget-898213 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627182913/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/prabhass-kalki-mounted-on-rs-700-cr-budget-898213 |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=Deccan Chronicle }}</ref>}}
| gross          = <!-- Please refer to WP:ICTFSOURCES before adding BO figures. Any other additions will be treated as disruptive editing, leading to blocking. -->{{INR|1042{{ndash}}1200 crore}}{{efn|name="kalki"}}
}}

'''''Kalki 2898 AD''''' ({{IPA|te|kəlkɪ|lang}}) is a 2024 Indian [[Telugu language|Telugu]]-language [[Epic film|epic]] [[science fiction film]]<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Ramachandran |first=Naman |date=31 December 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD' Producers Reflect on Global Impact Ahead of Japan Release (EXCLUSIVE) |url=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/kalki-2898-ad-global-impact-japan-release-1236262659/ |access-date=3 January 2025 |magazine=Variety |quote=Vyjayanthi Movies' ambitious Indian sci-fi mythological epic "Kalki 2898 AD" made waves in 2024 .....}}</ref><ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74nr0wUjHSg&t=125s |title=Nag Ashwin: "When you make a mytho sci-fi with big stars, you can't afford to…" |date=5 July 2024 |publisher=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |time=2:05 |access-date=10 February 2025 |via=YouTube}}</ref> written and directed by [[Nag Ashwin]]. Produced by [[Vyjayanthi Movies]], it features an [[ensemble cast]] including [[Amitabh Bachchan]], [[Kamal Haasan]], [[Prabhas]],  [[Deepika Padukone]], and [[Disha Patani]]. Inspired by [[Hindu texts|Hindu scriptures]], the film serves as the first instalment in the planned Kalki Cinematic Universe. Set in a [[Utopian and dystopian fiction|dystopian]] future in the year 2898 AD in the city of [[Varanasi|Kashi]], the story follows a group on a mission to protect [[Human subject research|lab subject]] SUM-80's unborn child, believed to be [[Kalki]], the final incarnation of [[Vishnu]].

The film was officially announced in February 2020 and had the [[working title]] of ''Project K''. [[Principal photography]] commenced a year later in July 2021 due to [[COVID-19 pandemic in India|COVID-19 pandemic]]. It was shot sporadically over the next three years extensively in [[Ramoji Film City]] and [[Wrap (filmmaking)|wrapped]] by late-May 2024. The official title was revealed in July 2023. The film features music by [[Santhosh Narayanan]], cinematography by [[Djordje Stojiljkovic]], and editing by [[Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao]]. 

''Kalki 2898 AD'' was initially scheduled to release on 9 May 2024, but was postponed due to unfinished [[post-production]] work. It was released worldwide on 27 June 2024 in standard, [[IMAX]], and [[3D film|3D]] formats. With a {{INR|600 crore|link=no|year=2024}} production budget, it is the [[List of most expensive Indian films|one of the most expensive Indian films ever made]].<ref name="jha-2024">{{Cite web |last=Jha |first=Subhash K |date=1 July 2024 |title=Prabhas, Kamal Haasan Paid Rs 100 Crore For Kalki! |url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/report/kamal-haasan-paid-thrice-more-than-amitabh/20240701.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240702093254/https://m.rediff.com/movies/report/kamal-haasan-paid-thrice-more-than-amitabh/20240701.htm |archive-date=2 July 2024 |access-date=2 July 2024 |website=Rediff |language=en-US}}</ref> The film grossed an estimated {{INR|1,042–1,100 crore}} globally and has set multiple box office records for an Indian and Telugu film, becoming the [[List of Indian films of 2024|second highest-grossing Indian film of 2024]], the [[List of highest-grossing Telugu films|fourth highest-grossing Telugu film]], and the [[List of highest-grossing Indian films|ninth highest-grossing Indian film of all time]].{{efn|name="kalki"}} The film won four [[Telangana Gaddar Film Awards]], including Best Film, and four [[South Indian International Movie Awards]] including [[SIIMA Award for Best Film – Telugu|Best Film – Telugu]].

== Plot ==
In the aftermath of the [[Kurukshetra War]], [[Ashwatthama]] unleashes [[Brahmastra]] in a bid to murder the [[Parikshit|unborn child]] of [[Uttarā]], aiming to end the lineage of the [[Pandava|Pandavas]]. As punishment, [[Krishna]] curses him with [[Chiranjivi|immortality]] and eternal suffering, condemning him to wander the Earth until he redeems himself by protecting the mother of [[Kalki]], the prophesied final [[avatar]] of [[Vishnu]].

6000 years later, in 2898 AD, Earth has become a [[dystopia]], with the city of [[Varanasi|Kashi]] standing as the last bastion of humanity. It is ruled by Supreme Yaskin, a 200-year-old demonic [[god king]] (or warden) who lives in the Complex, a massive [[inverted pyramid (architecture)|inverted pyramid]] accessible only to the elite. Fertile women from the impoverished outskirts are forcibly recruited for Project K—an experiment aimed at harvesting a life-extending serum from artificial pregnancies. None survive the process beyond 150 days.

SUM-80, a pregnant laboratory subject, is discovered but she escapes the extraction procedure with the help of rebel agents. She is renamed Sumathi and taken to [[Shambhala]], a secret settlement that believes in the Kalki prophecy. On the journey, the rebels are ambushed by the Raiders, Yaskin's army, and bounty hunters, including Bhairava, a mercenary who longs to live in the Complex, and his [[Artificial Intelligence|AI]] [[self-driving car|car]] BU-JZ-1 aka Bujji. Kyra, one of the rebels, sacrifices herself. Ashwatthama—who has realised that Sumathi is pregnant with Kalki—intervenes and rescues her.

The group reaches Shambhala, where nature responds to her presence. Ashwatthama encourages her to embrace her destiny and reveals to Raia, his adolescent companion, his ancient connection to [[Karna]] through his bow, [[Vijaya (bow)|Vijaya Dhanussu]]. Meanwhile, Bhairava, seeking reward, strikes a deal with Commander Manas, Yaskin's enforcer, to capture Sumathi. Manipulating Luke, his Shambhalan admirer, Bhairava infiltrates Shambhala and attempts to abduct Sumathi under the disguise of Ashwatthama, but is confronted by the latter. As they clash, Manas and the Raiders launch an assault, killing Shambhala's leader Mariam and capturing Ashwatthama. 

During the chaos, Bhairava unknowingly picks up Vijaya Dhanussu and a sacred leaf, triggering a transformation that reveals him as the reincarnation of Karna. Empowered, he defeats the Raiders and kills Manas to protect Sumathi, but remains unaware of his past life.

In a [[post-credits scene|mid-credits scene]], Yaskin is injected with a sample of Sumathi's fetal serum and lifts up the [[Gandiva]], the ancient bow of [[Arjuna]]. Having gained godlike powers, he vows to reshape the world.

== Cast ==
Adapted from the opening and closing credits:<ref name="vyjayanthi movies-2024">{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.primevideo.com/detail/amzn1.dv.gti.5e6a95ea-424a-49e0-b1db-3a6097ec03f9 |title=Kalki 2898 AD |language=te |publisher=[[Vyjayanthi Movies]] |year=2024 |place=India |access-date=22 August 2024 |via=[[Amazon Prime Video]]}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
{{Cast listing|* [[Amitabh Bachchan]] as [[Ashwatthama]], the son of sage and warrior [[Drona|Dronacharya]] and an ally to the [[Kaurava|Kauravas]], who was cursed with immortality for attempting to kill an unborn [[Parikshit]]. He has since roamed the Earth for nearly six thousand years.
* [[Kamal Haasan]] as Supreme Yaskin, a [[Totalitarianism|totalitarian]] [[God king|god-king]] ruling the post-apocalyptic world from the "Complex".
* [[Prabhas]] in a dual role as:
** Bhairava, A [[bounty hunter]]
** [[Karna]], An ancient warrior who was allied with the Kauravas; the previous life of Bhairava
* [[Deepika Padukone]] as SUM-80 alias Sumathi, a pregnant [[Human subject research|lab subject]] of Project K and the prophesied mother of [[Kalki]] (voice by [[Sobhita Dhulipala]])<ref>{{Cite news |last=Sharma |first=Dishya |date=1 July 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD: Sobhita Dhulipala Dubs For Deepika Padukone in Telugu Version? Here's What We Know |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/kalki-2898-ad-sobhita-dhulipala-dubs-for-deepika-padukone-in-telugu-version-heres-what-we-know-8950493.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240702012417/https://www.news18.com/movies/kalki-2898-ad-sobhita-dhulipala-dubs-for-deepika-padukone-in-telugu-version-heres-what-we-know-8950493.html |archive-date=2 July 2024 |access-date=2 July 2024 |work=[[News18]]}}</ref>
* [[Disha Patani]] as Roxie, Bhairava's love interest
* [[Brahmanandam]] as Rajan, Bhairava's landlord
* [[Rajendra Prasad (actor)|Rajendra Prasad]] as Rumi
* [[Shobana]] as Mariam, the leader of [[Shambhala]]
* [[Pasupathy]] as Veeran, a rebel from Shambhala
* Anil George as Counsellor Bani
* [[Saswata Chatterjee]] as Commander Manas
* [[Anna Ben]] as Kyra, a rebel from Shambhala
* Harshith Reddy as Luke, a rebel from Shambhala
* Kavya Ramachandran as LYL-33, an undercover rebel at the Complex
* Ayaz Pasha as Ajju, a rebel from Shambhala
* Keya Nair as Raia
* Humhu as Krane, a bounty hunter
* Vinay Kumar as Commander Sirius{{efn|The character's name is a reference to [[Sirius Black]] from [[J. K. Rowling]]'s ''[[Harry Potter]]'' franchise.<ref name="Star Wars"/>}}
* Sanjay Ratha as Commander Shatru
* Venkata Ramana as Ronnie
* Hamish Boyd as Yuri
* Advait Chauhan as Isaac
* Sanghwa Shin as Leon
* Anoushka Maskey as GS-Q43
* [[Djordje Stojiljkovic]] as Garuda driver
* [[Keerthy Suresh]] as BU-JZ-1 alias Bujji, Bhairava's companion [[artificial intelligence|AI]] [[android (robot)|droid]] / [[self-driving car|vehicle]] (Voice-over){{efn|AI assistant Bujji has been interpreted as a reference to Kala Bhairava's [[vahana]] [[Shvana]].}}
* [[Krishnakumar Balasubramanian|Krishnakumar]] as [[Krishna]], an incarnation of [[Vishnu]], who was born during the time of ''[[Mahabharata]]'' to bring peace by aiding the [[Pandava]]s; served as Prince Arjuna's charioteer and strategist during the [[Kurukshetra War]] (voice by [[Arjun Das]]).<ref>{{Cite news |last=Nyayapati |first=Neeshita |date=28 June 2024 |title=Fans decode who plays Lord Krishna in Kalki 2898 AD; actor calls it an 'honour' |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/fans-decode-who-plays-lord-krishna-in-kalki-2898-ad-actor-calls-it-an-honour-101719557587680-amp.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701022112/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/fans-decode-who-plays-lord-krishna-in-kalki-2898-ad-actor-calls-it-an-honour-101719557587680-amp.html |archive-date=1 July 2024 |access-date=29 July 2024 |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref> Krishna's character appears as silhouette and without an identity. Speaking about this decision, Ashwin said that it would otherwise just become a person or an actor but the idea was to keep him dark-skinned, silhouetted, and a mysterious figure.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Baisakhi |first=Mishra |date=5 July 2024 |title=EXCLUSIVE: Nag Ashwin opens up on his conscious decision to keep Krishna's character in silhouette for Kalki 2898 AD |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/exclusive-nag-ashwin-opens-up-on-his-conscious-decision-to-keep-krishnas-character-in-silhouette-for-kalki-2898-ad-1324547 |website=[[Pinkvilla]]}}</ref>}}

=== Cameo appearances ===
{{cast listing|
* [[Malvika Nair]] as [[Uttarā (Mahabharata)|Uttara]], the princess of [[Matsya Kingdom]]; daughter-in-law of Arjuna and mother of Parikshit; the last living heir of the [[Kuru Kingdom]] following the Kurukshetra War. She and her unborn baby (Parikshit) were attacked by Ashwatthama's [[Brahmastra|enchanted arrow]] after the war ended.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Bohra |first=Anurag |date=26 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD: Ashwatthama to Ved Vyas, 7 Mahabharata characters that you might find in Prabhas' dystopian epic |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/kalki-2898-ad-ashwatthama-to-ved-vyas-7-mahabharata-characters-that-you-might-find-in-prabhas-dystopian-epic-101719382247048.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628235124/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/kalki-2898-ad-ashwatthama-to-ved-vyas-7-mahabharata-characters-that-you-might-find-in-prabhas-dystopian-epic-101719382247048.html |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=23 August 2024 |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref>
* [[Mrunal Thakur]] as Divya, a lady who was assumed to be Kalki's mother.<ref name="the indian express-2024" />
* [[Ram Gopal Varma]] as Chef Chintu: A street food vendor<ref name="the indian express-2024" />
* [[Dulquer Salmaan]] as Pilot / Captain, a Bhairava's guardian<ref name="the indian express-2024" />
* [[Srinivas Avasarala]] as a money lender and Bhairava's prospective buyer<ref name="m9news-2024" />
* [[Faria Abdullah]] as Peacock: A dancer in the Complex<ref name="m9news-2024" />
* [[K. V. Anudeep]] as a Complex member<ref name="m9news-2024">{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Prime Video Acquires Kalki 2898 AD |url=https://www.m9.news/movienews/prime-video-acquires-kalki-2898-ad/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628081202/https://www.m9.news/movienews/prime-video-acquires-kalki-2898-ad/ |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=M9.news}}</ref>
* [[S. S. Rajamouli]] as a Bounty hunter and Bhairava's rival, also his ex-boss<ref name="the indian express-2024" />
* [[Vijay Deverakonda]] as [[Arjuna]], the third Pandava brother and a powerful archer who was famous as the competitor of Karna.<ref name="the indian express-2024" />
* [[Santhosh Narayanan]] in the song "Ta Takkara" (uncredited)<ref name="vyjayanthi movies-2024" />{{rp|1:09:18}}
}}

== Production ==

=== Development ===
{{Multiple image
| image1            = Prabhas by Gage Skidmore.jpg
| image2            = Nag Ashwin by Gage Skidmore.jpg
| total_width       = 270
| footer            = ''Kalki 2898 AD'' is the first collaboration of [[Prabhas]] with [[Nag Ashwin]].
}}
After the success of ''[[Mahanati]]'' in 2019, [[Nag Ashwin]] stated that he had been working on an original story, for which he had spent a long time on. He also stated that the production would begin soon.<ref>{{Cite web |last=K. |first=Janani |date=14 August 2019 |title=Mahanati director Nag Ashwin: I thought Bollywood will get National Awards, not Keerthy Suresh |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/mahanati-director-nag-ashwin-i-thought-bollywood-will-get-national-awards-not-keerthy-suresh-1580733-2019-08-14 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220729075121/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/mahanati-director-nag-ashwin-i-thought-bollywood-will-get-national-awards-not-keerthy-suresh-1580733-2019-08-14 |archive-date=29 July 2022 |access-date=29 July 2022 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref> The project would be funded by [[C. Aswani Dutt]]'s [[Vyjayanthi Movies]], which also funded ''Mahanati''. The company announced on 7 August 2019 that the production would begin in September and posted a [[Casting (performing arts)|casting call]] for various artist positions.<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 August 2019 |title=Confirmed: Massive project from Nag Ashwin and Vyjayanthi Movies |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/confirmed-massive-project-from-nag-ashwin-and-vyjayanthi-movies/articleshow/70568453.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201208094606/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/confirmed-massive-project-from-nag-ashwin-and-vyjayanthi-movies/articleshow/70568453.cms |archive-date=8 December 2020 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> On 26 February 2020, coinciding the occasion of the 50th year since the establishment of Dutt's house, [[Prabhas]] was announced to be the lead actor. Tentatively titled ''Prabhas 21'' (as it is intended to be the actor's 21st film in the lead role), the production would begin after the actor completes filming for ''[[Radhe Shyam]]'' (2022).<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 February 2020 |title=Prabhas teams up with Mahanati director Nag Ashwin for his next |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/prabhas-teams-up-with-mahanati-director-nag-ashwin-for-his-next-1650163-2020-02-26 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627141542/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/prabhas-teams-up-with-mahanati-director-nag-ashwin-for-his-next-1650163-2020-02-26 |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref><ref name="news18-2021" /> The film was made on a production budget of ₹600 crore that included star remuneration of ₹80 crore to Prabhas, and ₹20 crore each to Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan and Deepika Padukone.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD: Prabhas Charges Rs 80 Cr; Deepika Padukone, Big B's Shocking Fee Out {{!}} Report |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/kalki-2898-ad-budget-cast-fees-prabhas-rs-80-cr-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-rs-20-cr-report-8946044.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627035535/https://www.news18.com/movies/kalki-2898-ad-budget-cast-fees-prabhas-rs-80-cr-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-rs-20-cr-report-8946044.html |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=News18 |language=en}}</ref>

The lead actor, however, reportedly decided to take the [[revenue sharing]] model, receiving ₹80 crore as advance, and a chunk of the profits would be given to him as remuneration.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalki 2898 AD – Prabhas lets go of his fee; to take a share in the profits {{!}} Details inside |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/kalki-2898-ad-prabhas-lets-go-of-his-fee-to-take-a-share-in-the-profits-details-inside/d73f664599786 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627141545/https://www.ottplay.com/news/kalki-2898-ad-prabhas-lets-go-of-his-fee-to-take-a-share-in-the-profits-details-inside/d73f664599786 |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=OTTPlay |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=24 June 2024 |title=Prabhas takes a pay cut for 'Kalki 2898 AD': Reports |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/prabhas-takes-a-pay-cut-for-kalki-2898-ad-reports/articleshow/111225064.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627141554/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/prabhas-takes-a-pay-cut-for-kalki-2898-ad-reports/articleshow/111225064.cms |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> In February 2021, it was reported that the filming would begin in March; however, Ashwin during the promotions for his short film in ''[[Pitta Kathalu]]'' (2021) stated that due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]] and Prabhas' prior commitments, the filming would commence at the latter half of the year.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 February 2021 |title=Nag Ashwin opens up about Prabhas and Deepika Padukone's film, shooting in mid-2021 |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/nag-ashwin-opens-up-about-prabhas-and-deepika-padukone-s-film-shooting-in-mid-2021-1771829-2021-02-22 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221021140143/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/nag-ashwin-opens-up-about-prabhas-and-deepika-padukone-s-film-shooting-in-mid-2021-1771829-2021-02-22 |archive-date=21 October 2022 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref> The film's official title, ''Kalki 2898 AD'', was announced on 21 July 2023.<ref>{{Cite news |date=21 July 2023 |title=Kalki 2898 AD: Twitterati hail Prabhas and Nag Ashwin's teaser; say ProjectK similar to Dune with just Rs 600 crore budget |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kalki-2898-ad-twitterati-hail-prabhas-and-nag-ashwins-teaser-say-projectk-similar-to-dune-with-just-rs-600-crore-budget/articleshow/102003736.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230815064034/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kalki-2898-ad-twitterati-hail-prabhas-and-nag-ashwins-teaser-say-projectk-similar-to-dune-with-just-rs-600-crore-budget/articleshow/102003736.cms |archive-date=15 August 2023 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> It is a reference to [[Kalki]], an [[avatar]] of Hindu deity [[Vishnu]] in the [[Hindu eschatology]], according to the ''[[Bhagavata Purana]]'', and 3102 BC – traditionally thought to be the beginning of [[Kali Yuga]] after the [[Kurukshetra War]], from the death of Krishna (the film being set 6,000 years into the Kali Yuga, the era of the [[asura]]/demon [[Kali (demon)|Kali]]).<ref>{{Cite news |date=26 February 2024 |title=Nag Ashwin reveals Prabhas-starrer Kalki 2898 AD's connection to Mahabharat |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/nag-ashwin-reveals-prabhas-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-s-connection-to-mahabharat-101708920654076.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240302061600/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/nag-ashwin-reveals-prabhas-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-s-connection-to-mahabharat-101708920654076.html |archive-date=2 March 2024 |access-date=26 May 2024 |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kelley |first=Aidan |date=28 July 2023 |title='Kalki 2898-AD': Cast, Trailer, Release Date, and Everything We Know So Far |url=https://collider.com/kalki-2898-ad-cast-trailer-project-k/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104230841/https://collider.com/kalki-2898-ad-cast-trailer-project-k/ |archive-date=4 January 2024 |access-date=9 June 2024 |website=Collider |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=29 May 2024 |title=Prabhas on the high budget of Kalki 2898 AD: 'The whole film is made for international audiences' |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/prabhas-on-the-high-budget-of-kalki-2898-ad-the-whole-film-is-made-for-international-audiences-101716987018303.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240609155437/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/prabhas-on-the-high-budget-of-kalki-2898-ad-the-whole-film-is-made-for-international-audiences-101716987018303.html |archive-date=9 June 2024 |access-date=9 June 2024 |website=[[Hindustan Times]]}}</ref>

=== Pre-production ===
Ashwin co-wrote the film's script along with Rutham Samar, [[Sai Madhav Burra]] and B. S. Sarawagna Kumar, in his second consecutive film with Samar and Burra after ''Mahanati''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Rutham Samar Movies List {{!}} Rutham Samar Upcoming Movies {{!}} Films |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/celebrity/rutham-samar/filmography/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628092121/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/celebrity/rutham-samar/filmography/ |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=Bollywood Hungama |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=4 May 2024 |title=Never Attempted Before: Kalki 2898 AD Co-writer Dishes on Unique Concept of Prabhas Starrer |url=https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!entertainment/never-attempted-before-kalki-2898-ad-co-writer-dishes-on-unique-concept-of-prabhas-starrer-enn24050401462 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615102343/https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!entertainment/never-attempted-before-kalki-2898-ad-co-writer-dishes-on-unique-concept-of-prabhas-starrer-enn24050401462 |archive-date=15 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=ETV Bharat News |language=en}}</ref> A [[Muhurat shot|muhurat]] pooja ceremony was held on 24 July 2021 at [[Ramoji Film City]] in [[Hyderabad]] with the presence of the film's cast and crew. The working title was revealed to have been changed to ''Project K'' the same day.<ref name="news18-2021">{{Cite web |date=29 January 2021 |title=Prabhas 21: Director Nag Ashwin Presents 'Heroes Behind the Screen' in New Update for Film |url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/prabhas-21-director-nag-ashwin-presents-heroes-behind-the-screen-in-new-update-for-film-3360812.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240629124136/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/prabhas-21-director-nag-ashwin-presents-heroes-behind-the-screen-in-new-update-for-film-3360812.html |archive-date=29 June 2024 |access-date=29 June 2024 |website=News18 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Prabhas 21' update will not be released on February 26, says director Nag Ashwin |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/prabhas-21-update-will-not-be-released-on-february-26-says-director-nag-ashwin-952674.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240629124134/https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/prabhas-21-update-will-not-be-released-on-february-26-says-director-nag-ashwin-952674.html |archive-date=29 June 2024 |access-date=29 June 2024 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=24 July 2021 |title=Nag Ashwin's new film starring Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas and Deepika Padukone begins in Hyderabad |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/amitabh-bachchan-prabhas-start-shoot-for-nag-ashwins-film/article35507018.ece |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608180107/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/amitabh-bachchan-prabhas-start-shoot-for-nag-ashwins-film/article35507018.ece |archive-date=8 June 2022 |access-date=8 June 2022 |work=[[The Hindu]] |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> Ashwin stated that the film needed high-end technology and futuristic vehicles to be developed for the film. Although they can be recreated using [[computer-generated imagery]] (CGI), the director opted to build these vehicles from scratch.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Adivi |first=Sashidhar |date=7 March 2022 |title=Nag Ashwin asked for help, Anand Mahindra obliged |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/070322/nag-ashwin-asked-for-help-anand-mahindra-obliged.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175541/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/070322/nag-ashwin-asked-for-help-anand-mahindra-obliged.html |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[Deccan Chronicle]]}}</ref>

In March 2022, Ashwin requested businessman [[Anand Mahindra]] to provide technical support to build such type of vehicle.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pandey |first=Devasheesh |date=4 March 2022 |title=Prabhas, Deepika Padukone's Project K director seeks 'tech-related' help from Anand Mahindra |url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/entertainment/news/prabhas-deepika-padukone-sci-fi-project-k-director-nag-ashwin-seeks-tech-related-help-from-anand-mahindra-2022-03-04-762674 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175541/https://www.indiatvnews.com/entertainment/news/prabhas-deepika-padukone-sci-fi-project-k-director-nag-ashwin-seeks-tech-related-help-from-anand-mahindra-2022-03-04-762674 |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[India TV News]]}}</ref> A few days later, Mahindra responded that their company [[Mahindra & Mahindra]] would assist the production team from their [[Mahindra World City, Chennai|Mahindra Research Valley]] campus in [[Chennai]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=14 March 2022 |title=Anand Mahindra excited about Deepika-Prabhas starrer 'Project K', says it will beat Hollywood |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/anand-mahindra-excited-about-deepika-prabhas-starrer-says-project-k-will-beat-hollywood/articleshow/90192680.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220706110130/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/anand-mahindra-excited-about-deepika-prabhas-starrer-says-project-k-will-beat-hollywood/articleshow/90192680.cms |archive-date=6 July 2022 |work=[[The Economic Times]]}}</ref> In July 2021, the makers erected a futuristic set at [[Ramoji Film City]] in [[Hyderabad]] where a significant portion of filming is expected to take place.<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 July 2021 |title=With 400 crore budget, Prabhas-Deepika's next to break Baahubali record |url=https://www.siasat.com/with-400-crore-of-budget-prabhas-deepikas-next-to-break-baahubalis-record-2171995/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175541/https://www.siasat.com/with-400-crore-of-budget-prabhas-deepikas-next-to-break-baahubalis-record-2171995/ |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[The Siasat Daily]]}}</ref> [[A. R. Rahman]] had been initially approached, in August 2020, to compose music for the film but the talks fell out.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Manjula |date=5 August 2020 |title=AR Rahman Whopping Remuneration For Deepika-Prabhas Movie of Nag Ashwin |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/ar-rahman-whopping-remuneration-for-deepika-prabhas-movie-of-nag-ashwin-637616 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175541/https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/ar-rahman-whopping-remuneration-for-deepika-prabhas-movie-of-nag-ashwin-637616 |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[The Hans India]]}}</ref>

Ashwin retained most of his technicians, including composer [[Mickey J. Meyer]], editor [[Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao]], production designer Nithin Zihani Choudhary, cinematographer [[Dani Sanchez-Lopez]], costume designers Thota Vijay Bhaskar, Shaleena Nathani and Sahithi Patha.<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 January 2021 |title=Makers of Nag Ashwin-Prabhas movie rope in 'Mahanati' cinematographer, music composer |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/telugu/2021/jan/29/makers-of-nag-ashwin-prabhasmovie-rope-in-mahanati-cinematographer-music-composer-2256633.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175541/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/telugu/2021/jan/29/makers-of-nag-ashwin-prabhasmovie-rope-in-mahanati-cinematographer-music-composer-2256633.html |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[The New Indian Express]]}}</ref> However, Serbian cinematographer, [[Djordje Stojiljkovic]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dundoo |first=Sangeetha |date=20 June 2024 |title=Djordje Stojiljkovic: Each sub-world of 'Kalki 2898 AD' deserved a distinct visual treatment |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/djordje-stojiljkovic-each-sub-world-of-kalki-2898-ad-deserved-a-distinct-visual-treatment/article68307218.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628081222/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/djordje-stojiljkovic-each-sub-world-of-kalki-2898-ad-deserved-a-distinct-visual-treatment/article68307218.ece |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=30 June 2024 |website=The Hindu |language=en}}</ref> replaced [[Dani Sanchez-Lopez]] as the official cinematographer of the film. In February 2023, [[Santhosh Narayanan]] replaced Meyer as the composer.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 February 2023 |title=Prabhas, Deepika Padukone's Project K producer reveals film is about 'modern-day avatar of Vishnu': 'Everything you see in it will leave you stunned' |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/prabhas-deepika-padukone-project-k-producer-reveals-film-is-about-modern-day-avatar-of-vishnu-8469651/ |access-date=14 September 2024 |website=[[The Indian Express]]}}</ref> Andreas Nguyen was chosen as the stunt choreographer of the film.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 July 2024 |title=Who Is Andy Long? The Man Who Choreographed Stunts In Kalki 2898 AD |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/who-is-andy-long-the-man-who-choreographed-stunts-in-kalki-2898-ad-8956734.html |access-date=14 September 2024 |website=[[News18]]}}</ref> [[Singeetam Srinivasa Rao]] joined as a mentor, contributing elements of his planned script on Lord Krishna and providing creative inputs to the project.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kumar |first=Karthik |date=22 September 2020 |title=Singeetham Srinivasa Rao joins Prabhas and Deepika Padukone's next with director Nag Ashwin |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/singeetham-srinivasa-rao-joins-prabhas-and-deepika-padukone-s-next-with-director-nag-ashwin/story-fSqxLc8dsYJbgVWL2q6Z8L.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175541/https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/singeetham-srinivasa-rao-joins-prabhas-and-deepika-padukone-s-next-with-director-nag-ashwin/story-fSqxLc8dsYJbgVWL2q6Z8L.html |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[Hindustan Times]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Prakash |first=B. V. S. |date=5 May 2024 |title=Singeetam Srinivasa Rao Lord Krishna story in Kalki 2898AD? |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/singeetam-srinivasa-rao-lord-krishna-story-in-kalki-2898ad-892524 |access-date=4 January 2025 |work=[[Deccan Chronicle]]}}</ref>

=== Casting ===
{{Multiple image
| image1            = Deepika Padukone Cannes 2018 (cropped).jpg
| image2            = BACHCHAN Amitabh 03-24x30-2009.jpg
| image3            = Kamal Haasan by Gage Skidmore.jpg
| footer            = [[Deepika Padukone]], [[Amitabh Bachchan]], and [[Kamal Haasan]] play crucial roles in the film
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Prabhas would sport long hair and beard, with reporters reminiscing his look in the film with [[Baahubali (franchise)|''Baahubali'']].<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 July 2023 |title=Project K: Prabhas is ready to fight as a rebel in first look from Nag Ashwin film |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/project-k-prabhas-first-look-poster-out-101689751683941.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230719103411/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/project-k-prabhas-first-look-poster-out-101689751683941.html |archive-date=19 July 2023 |access-date=19 July 2023 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1 May 2024 |title=Prabhas debuts NEW 'Kalki 2898 AD' look in promo ad; fans think he looks like 'Batman' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/prabhas-debuts-new-kalki-2898-ad-look-in-promo-ad-fans-think-he-looks-like-batman/articleshow/109744397.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240502233700/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/prabhas-debuts-new-kalki-2898-ad-look-in-promo-ad-fans-think-he-looks-like-batman/articleshow/109744397.cms |archive-date=2 May 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> [[Deepika Padukone]] was cast as the female lead,<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 July 2020 |title=Prabhas and Deepika Padukone to star in Nag Ashwin's film |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/prabhas-and-deepika-padukone-to-star-in-nag-ashwin-film-6512530/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175541/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/prabhas-and-deepika-padukone-to-star-in-nag-ashwin-film-6512530/ |archive-date=8 June 2022 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> in her Telugu film debut despite having starred in the unreleased ''Love 4 Ever''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=K. Jha |first=Subhash |author-link=Subhash K. Jha |date=22 July 2020 |title=Deepika Padukone charges Rs. 20 cr to feature in the Prabhas starrer; becomes the highest paid actress |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/deepika-padukone-charges-rs-20-cr-feature-prabhas-starrer-becomes-highest-paid-actress/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175541/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/deepika-padukone-charges-rs-20-cr-feature-prabhas-starrer-becomes-highest-paid-actress/ |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]]}}</ref> [[Amitabh Bachchan]] was confirmed to play an important role, in his Telugu film debut as he had previously only made cameo appearances in [[Manam (film)|''Manam'']] (2014) and ''[[Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy]]'' (2019).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jha |first=Subhash K. |author-link=Subhash K. Jha |date=27 November 2020 |title=Amitabh Bachchan will feature in a full length role in Prabhas and Deepika Padukone starrer film |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/amitabh-bachchan-will-feature-full-length-role-prabhas-deepika-padukone-starrer-film/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175543/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/amitabh-bachchan-will-feature-full-length-role-prabhas-deepika-padukone-starrer-film/ |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]]}}</ref> Ashwin stated that his role was "so important that his character's name [Ashwatthama] was the working title of an early draft".<ref>{{Cite web |date=9 October 2020 |title=Amitabh Bachchan joins Prabhas, Deepika Padukone in Nag Ashwin's untitled multilingual project |url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/amitabh-bachchan-joins-prabhas-deepika-padukone-in-nag-ashwins-untitled-multilingual-project-8896441.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220817052548/https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/amitabh-bachchan-joins-prabhas-deepika-padukone-in-nag-ashwins-untitled-multilingual-project-8896441.html |archive-date=17 August 2022 |website=[[Firstpost]]}}</ref> [[Kamal Haasan]] also joined the film in an important role,<ref name="ramachandran-2023">{{Cite web |last=Ramachandran |first=Naman |date=25 June 2023 |title=Kamal Haasan Joins Prabhas, Deepika Padukone and Amitabh Bachchan on Cast of 'Project K' |url=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/kamal-haasan-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-project-k-1235653908/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230625085932/https://variety.com/2023/film/news/kamal-haasan-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-project-k-1235653908/ |archive-date=25 June 2023 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=Variety |language=en-US}}</ref> while [[Disha Patani]] was also cast in an important role.<ref name="features-2022">{{Cite web |last=Features |first=C. E. |date=8 May 2022 |title=Disha Patani joins the cast of Project K |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/telugu/news/2022/May/08/disha-patani-joins-the-cast-of-project-k-31337.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175541/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/telugu/news/2022/may/08/disha-patani-joins-the-cast-of-project-k-31337.html |archive-date=8 June 2022 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=Cinema Express |language=en}}</ref> The film marks their return to Telugu cinema after ''[[Subha Sankalpam]]'' (1995) and [[Loafer (2015 film)|''Loafer'']] (2015), respectively.<ref name="ramachandran-2023" /><ref name="features-2022" />{{efn|While ''[[Cheekati Rajyam]]'' (2015) was his last Telugu film, his last straight Telugu film was ''Subha Sankalpam''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Krishnamoorthy |first=Suresh |date=25 May 2015 |title=With Cheekati Raajyam, Kamal returns to Telugu |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/with-cheekati-raajyam-kamal-returns-to-telugu/article7242870.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170713102025/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/with-cheekati-raajyam-kamal-returns-to-telugu/article7242870.ece |archive-date=13 July 2017 |access-date=4 June 2015 |website=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref>}}

[[Rajendra Prasad (actor)|Rajendra Prasad]],<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sistu |first=Suhas |date=1 March 2024 |title=Rajendra Prasad joins stellar cast in Prabhas' 'Kalki 2898 AD' |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/rajendra-prasad-joins-stellar-cast-in-prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-861945 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303171013/https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/rajendra-prasad-joins-stellar-cast-in-prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-861945 |archive-date=3 March 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=thehansindia.com |language=en}}</ref> [[Shobana|Shobhana]],<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD: Malayalam actor Shobana joins cast of Prabhas-starrer, makers unveil new poster |url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/entertainment/news/kalki-2898-ad-malayalam-actor-shobana-joins-cast-of-prabhas-starrer-makers-unveil-new-poster-2024-06-19-937728 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628081257/https://www.indiatvnews.com/entertainment/news/kalki-2898-ad-malayalam-actor-shobana-joins-cast-of-prabhas-starrer-makers-unveil-new-poster-2024-06-19-937728 |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=indiatvnews.com |language=en}}</ref> [[Saswata Chatterjee]],<ref>{{Cite news |date=14 September 2023 |title=Saswata Chatterjee thrilled to share screen with Deepika Padukone, Kamal Haasan, Amitabh Bachchan & Prabhas in 'Kalki 2898 AD' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bengali/movies/news/saswata-chatterjee-thrilled-to-share-screen-with-deepika-padukone-kamal-haasan-amitabh-bachchan-prabhas-in-kalki-2898-ad/articleshow/103665978.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240602130226/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bengali/movies/news/saswata-chatterjee-thrilled-to-share-screen-with-deepika-padukone-kamal-haasan-amitabh-bachchan-prabhas-in-kalki-2898-ad/articleshow/103665978.cms |archive-date=2 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> [[Brahmanandam]],<ref name="hindustan times-2024">{{Cite web |date=30 May 2024 |title=Bujji and Bhairava trailer: Animated prelude to Kalki 2898 AD shows their adventures. Watch |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/bujji-and-bhairava-trailer-animated-prelude-to-kalki-2898-ad-shows-their-adventures-watch-101717067906167.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240530154811/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/bujji-and-bhairava-trailer-animated-prelude-to-kalki-2898-ad-shows-their-adventures-watch-101717067906167.html |archive-date=30 May 2024 |access-date=30 May 2024 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref> and [[Pasupathy]] were cast in important roles.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harsh |first=B. H. |date=22 June 2024 |title=Pasupathy poster from Kalki 2898 AD out |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/telugu/news/2024/Jun/22/pasupathy-poster-from-kalki-2898-ad-out |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627150338/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/telugu/news/2024/Jun/22/pasupathy-poster-from-kalki-2898-ad-out |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=Cinema Express |language=en}}</ref> [[Anna Ben]] made her Telugu debut with this film.<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 February 2024 |title=Anna Ben joins Prabhas' Kalki 2898 AD; Says Excited to foray into Telugu cinema |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/anna-ben-joins-prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-says-excited-to-foray-into-telugu-cinema/articleshow/107485026.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240310014122/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/anna-ben-joins-prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-says-excited-to-foray-into-telugu-cinema/articleshow/107485026.cms |archive-date=10 March 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> [[Keerthy Suresh]] and [[Arjun Das]] appeared in voice roles respectively; former as Bujji and latter as Lord [[Krishna]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Features |first=C. E. |date=22 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD makers release two more character posters |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/telugu/news/2024/Jun/22/kalki-2898-ad-makers-release-two-more-character-posters |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627150337/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/telugu/news/2024/Jun/22/kalki-2898-ad-makers-release-two-more-character-posters |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=Cinema Express |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=26 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Movie Review box office collection day 1: Reviews call Prabhas' film 'next-level, like Hollywood', Rs 61 crore already in the bank |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/kalki-2898-ad-release-review-live-updates-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-kamal-haasan-box-office-9416091/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627023203/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/kalki-2898-ad-release-review-live-updates-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-kamal-haasan-box-office-9416091/ |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> Initially, Keerthy Suresh was offered another undisclosed role, but she rejected it and later accepted the voice-role.<ref>{{Cite news |date=13 August 2024 |title=Keerthy Suresh Was Initially Offered A 'Human' Role In Kalki 2898 AD? |url=https://news.abplive.com/entertainment/celebrities/kalki-2898-ad-keerthy-suresh-was-offered-a-human-role-before-ai-bot-bujji-in-prabhas-deepika-padukone-movie-1709847 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240827134630/https://news.abplive.com/entertainment/celebrities/kalki-2898-ad-keerthy-suresh-was-offered-a-human-role-before-ai-bot-bujji-in-prabhas-deepika-padukone-movie-1709847 |archive-date=27 August 2024 |access-date=14 August 2024 |work=ABP News}}</ref> Harshith Malgireddy, Kavya Ramachandran, Ayaz Pasha, Anil George, Keya Nair, Vinay Kumar, Venkata Ramana, Hamish Boyd and Sanghawa Shin were present during the film's preliminary shooting schedule.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Cast List {{!}} Kalki 2898 AD Movie Star Cast {{!}} Release Date {{!}} Movie Trailer {{!}} Review- Bollywood Hungama |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/kalki-2898-ad/cast/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627083715/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/kalki-2898-ad/cast/ |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |language=en}}</ref> [[Dulquer Salmaan]], [[Vijay Deverakonda]], [[Mrunal Thakur]], [[S. S. Rajamouli]], [[Ram Gopal Varma]] and [[K. V. Anudeep]] briefly had respective cameo appearances.<ref name="the indian express-2024">{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Complete list of Prabhas' Kalki 2898 AD cameos: From A-list stars to famous filmmakers |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-cameos-complete-list-dulquer-salmaan-vijay-deverakonda-mrunal-thakur-ram-gopal-varma-ss-rajamouli-9418563/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627115228/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-cameos-complete-list-dulquer-salmaan-vijay-deverakonda-mrunal-thakur-ram-gopal-varma-ss-rajamouli-9418563/ |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>

=== Filming ===
[[File:Ramoji Film City.jpg|thumb|250px|[[Ramoji Film City]], where parts of the film were shot|left]]
[[Principal photography]] began with the first schedule on 24 July 2021, on the occasion of [[Guru Purnima]], at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad featuring Bachchan.<ref>{{Cite web |date=24 July 2021 |title=Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan begin shooting for Nag Ashwin's next in Hyderabad |url=https://www.siasat.com/prabhas-amitabh-bachchan-begin-shooting-for-nag-ashwins-next-in-hyderabad-2168679/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175541/https://www.siasat.com/prabhas-amitabh-bachchan-begin-shooting-for-nag-ashwins-next-in-hyderabad-2168679/ |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[The Siasat Daily]]}}</ref> Prabhas and Padukone joined the production in December 2021 and scenes featuring both the actors and Bachchan were shot.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 December 2021 |title=Prabhas and Deepika Padukone give their first shot for Nag Ashwin's Project K |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/prabhas-and-deepika-padukone-give-their-first-shot-for-nag-ashwins-project-k/articleshow/88236040.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129091844/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/prabhas-and-deepika-padukone-give-their-first-shot-for-nag-ashwins-project-k/articleshow/88236040.cms |archive-date=29 January 2022 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=13 January 2022 |title=Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, And Deepika Padukone Start Shooting For Their Next Project k |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/entertainment-news-prabhas-amitabh-bachchan-and-deepika-padukone-start-shooting-for-their-next-project-k/404709 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175543/https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/entertainment-news-prabhas-amitabh-bachchan-and-deepika-padukone-start-shooting-for-their-next-project-k/404709 |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[Outlook India]]}}</ref> The second schedule of the shoot took place in February 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 February 2022 |title=The second schedule of Prabhas' upcoming movie 'Project K' to resume its shoot soon |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/the-second-schedule-of-prabhas-upcoming-movie-project-k-to-resume-its-shoot-soon/articleshow/89421270.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175544/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/the-second-schedule-of-prabhas-upcoming-movie-project-k-to-resume-its-shoot-soon/articleshow/89421270.cms |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=The Times of India}}</ref> Instead of shooting the entire film in a single stretch, the team divided its 80–90 days of shoot into 7–8 days every month. This actually allowed the production team to take time and prepare the gadgets and props to be used in the film. Therefore, the production of the film was expected to take longer than usual.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bhopatkar |first=Tejashree |date=16 March 2022 |title=Exclusive! Here's why Prabhas' 'Project K' starring Deepika Padukone and Amitabh Bachchan is taking so long to complete |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/heres-why-amitabh-bachchan-deepika-padukone-and-prabhas-starrer-project-k-is-taking-a-long-time-to-complete-the-shoot-exclusive/articleshow/90223822.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175542/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/heres-why-amitabh-bachchan-deepika-padukone-and-prabhas-starrer-project-k-is-taking-a-long-time-to-complete-the-shoot-exclusive/articleshow/90223822.cms |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> DIY [[Arri Alexa|Arri Alexa 65]] camera was used to shoot the film, thus making it the first Indian film to use this technology.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 April 2022 |title=Is a new filmmaking technology being introduced to Tollywood with Prabhas' 'Project K'? |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/is-a-new-filmmaking-technology-being-introduced-to-tollywood-with-prabhas-project-k/articleshow/90912382.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175541/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/is-a-new-filmmaking-technology-being-introduced-to-tollywood-with-prabhas-project-k/articleshow/90912382.cms |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref>

Prabhas was expected to start filming his solo portions in April 2022,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Keshri |first=Shweta |date=22 April 2022 |title=Prabhas to start shooting his solo portions for Project K in Hyderabad |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/prabhas-to-start-shooting-his-solo-portions-for-project-k-in-hyderabad-1940744-2022-04-22 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175542/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/prabhas-to-start-shooting-his-solo-portions-for-project-k-in-hyderabad-1940744-2022-04-22 |archive-date=8 June 2022 |access-date=8 June 2022 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref> however, his knee surgery led to a delay of his upcoming projects including ''[[Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire|Salaar]]'' and ''Kalki 2898 AD''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 April 2022 |title=BREAKING: Prabhas to undergo major knee surgery; recovery period is 3 months, will likely affect shoot of Salaar & Project K |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/breaking-prabhas-undergo-major-knee-surgery-recovery-period-3-months-will-likely-affect-shoot-salar-project-k/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175544/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/breaking-prabhas-undergo-major-knee-surgery-recovery-period-3-months-will-likely-affect-shoot-salar-project-k/ |archive-date=8 June 2022 |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]]}}</ref> 90% of the shoot was done in sets built in Ramoji Film City.<ref>{{Cite web |date=18 May 2022 |title=Prabhas Starrer Project K Completes Key Schedule In Hyderabad |url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/prabhas-starrer-project-k-completes-key-schedule-in-hyderabad-5196145.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230707162539/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/prabhas-starrer-project-k-completes-key-schedule-in-hyderabad-5196145.html |archive-date=7 July 2023 |access-date=7 July 2023 |website=News18 |language=en}}</ref> In June, Bachchan shot for a scene at [[Raidurg metro station]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 June 2022 |title=Hyderabad: Amitabh Bachchan spotted at Raidurg metro station |url=https://telanganatoday.com/hyderabad-amitabh-bachchan-spotted-at-raidurg-metro-station |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220717184112/https://telanganatoday.com/hyderabad-amitabh-bachchan-spotted-at-raidurg-metro-station |archive-date=17 July 2022 |access-date=17 July 2022 |website=Telangana Today}}</ref> In July, Padukone and Prabhas shot for a car chase sequence in Hyderabad.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 July 2022 |title=Project K: Prabhas and Deepika Padukone shoot adrenaline pumping action with high end cars like Lamborghini |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/south-cinema/project-k-prabhas-deepika-padukone-shoot-adrenaline-pumping-action-high-end-cars-like-lamborghini/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220721034048/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/south-cinema/project-k-prabhas-deepika-padukone-shoot-adrenaline-pumping-action-high-end-cars-like-lamborghini/ |archive-date=21 July 2022 |website=Bollywood Hungama}}</ref> Prabhas completed shooting the majority of his portions by the end of this schedule.<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 July 2022 |title=Prabhas, Deepika Padukone's 'Project K' reaches final leg of shoot |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/prabhas-deepika-padukones-project-k-reaches-final-leg-of-shoot/articleshow/93075804.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221130141935/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/prabhas-deepika-padukones-project-k-reaches-final-leg-of-shoot/articleshow/93075804.cms |archive-date=30 November 2022 |website=The Times of India}}</ref>

However, the film was still being shot in March 2023 when Bachchan injured his ribs and was advised to take rest in Mumbai.<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 March 2023 |title=Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan injured while filming action scene |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/06/entertainment/india-amitabh-bachchan-injury-intl-hnk/index.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230313091428/https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/06/entertainment/india-amitabh-bachchan-injury-intl-hnk/index.html |archive-date=13 March 2023 |access-date=27 March 2023 |publisher=CNN}}</ref> Around 70% of the filming was completed by June 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 June 2023 |title=Amitabh Bachchan, Prabhas welcome Kamal Haasan as he joins Nag Ashwin's Project K: 'A legend is what we needed for this role' |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/amitabh-bachchan-prabhas-welcome-kamal-haasan-project-k-announcement-video-watch-8685221/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230709062638/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/amitabh-bachchan-prabhas-welcome-kamal-haasan-project-k-announcement-video-watch-8685221/ |archive-date=9 July 2023 |access-date=9 July 2023 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> On 20 July 2023 at [[San Diego Comic-Con]], [[Nag Ashwin]] revealed that while the film was mostly shot in Telugu, they were also reshooting some scenes in [[Hindi]] to make them more impactful.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcnaqIgOR2M&t=480 |title=Kamal Haasan & Director Nag Ashwin Interview: Kalki 2898 AD and Comic-Con 2023 |minutes=8:10 |access-date=8 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231010062625/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcnaqIgOR2M&t=490s |archive-date=10 October 2023 |url-status=live |quote=Some scenes would definitely be more impactful if we are shooting it in Hindi. So we are shooting it in two languages. But for the most part it's a Telugu film... |via=YouTube}}</ref> However, the Hindi version is reportedly mostly dubbed.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nahta |first=Komal |author-link=Komal Nahta |date=27 June 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD' (Hindi dubbed) review |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEMPJARchSE&t=435s |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628081245/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEMPJARchSE&t=435s |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=28 June 2024 |via=YouTube |quote=It is dubbed in Hindi. |time=7:15}}</ref>{{efn|The [[Central Board of Film Certification|CBFC]] certificate of the Hindi version indicates that it is a dubbed version.<ref>{{Cite AV media |title=Kalki 2898 AD |type=motion picture |language=hi |publisher=[[Vyjayanthi Movies]] |year=2024 |place=India |time=0:00:01}}</ref>}} A romantic track featuring [[Prabhas]] and [[Disha Patani]] was filmed in Italy in March 2024 including at the [[Royal Palace of Caserta]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 March 2024 |title=Prabhas and Disha Patani shoot for a song from Kalki 2898 AD in Italy |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/prabhas-and-disha-patani-shoot-for-a-song-from-kalki-2898-ad-in-italy-101709797065429.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308132145/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/prabhas-and-disha-patani-shoot-for-a-song-from-kalki-2898-ad-in-italy-101709797065429.html |archive-date=8 March 2024 |access-date=9 March 2024 |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Racca |first=Davide |date=4 March 2024 |title=At the Reggia di Caserta filming of the Indian blockbuster 'Kalki 2898 AD' |url=https://reggiadicaserta.cultura.gov.it/en/mostra-visioni-alla-reggia-di-caserta/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240531104135/https://reggiadicaserta.cultura.gov.it/en/mostra-visioni-alla-reggia-di-caserta/ |archive-date=31 May 2024 |access-date=31 May 2024 |website=Reggia di Caserta}}</ref>

=== Post-production ===
The film features [[visual effects]] by the studios [[DNEG]] and [[The Embassy Visual Effects]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalki 2898 AD |url=https://www.dneg.com/show/kalki-2898-ad/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240610154722/https://www.dneg.com/show/kalki-2898-ad/ |archive-date=10 June 2024 |access-date=21 June 2024 |website=DNEG |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 June 2024 |title=In Production: Kalki 2898 AD |url=https://theembassyvfx.com/blog/in-production-kalki-2898-ad |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621124853/https://theembassyvfx.com/blog/in-production-kalki-2898-ad |archive-date=21 June 2024 |access-date=21 June 2024 |website=The Embassy |language=en-GB}}</ref> These studios also collaborated with StealthWorks Taiwan, Folks VFX, [[Lola Visual Effects]], Pixstone Images and Labyrinth.<ref>{{Cite news |date=12 June 2024 |title='Kalki will leave audiences hungry for more!' VFX Supervisor Paul Copeland – Exclusive! |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kalki-will-leave-audiences-hungry-for-more-vfx-supervisor-paul-copeland-exclusive/articleshow/110928249.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240613013153/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/kalki-will-leave-audiences-hungry-for-more-vfx-supervisor-paul-copeland-exclusive/articleshow/110928249.cms |archive-date=13 June 2024 |access-date=21 June 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Dundoo |first=Sangeetha Devi |date=20 June 2024 |title=Djordje Stojiljkovic: Each sub-world of 'Kalki 2898 AD' deserved a distinct visual treatment |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/djordje-stojiljkovic-each-sub-world-of-kalki-2898-ad-deserved-a-distinct-visual-treatment/article68307218.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628081222/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/djordje-stojiljkovic-each-sub-world-of-kalki-2898-ad-deserved-a-distinct-visual-treatment/article68307218.ece |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=21 June 2024 |work=The Hindu |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

DNEG and The Embassy created the film's environments and action sequences. The Embassy handled approximately 700 shots for the film and DNEG handled the principal visual effects and [[Computer-generated imagery|CGI]] shots for the film.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bharatvarsh |first=TV9 |date=12 June 2024 |title=बड़ा-सा रेगिस्तान, 700 शॉट्स और कमाल की टेक्नोलॉजी...इस नामी कंपनी ने ऐसे तैयार किया Kalki 2898 AD का VFX |url=https://www.tv9hindi.com/entertainment/south-cinema/prabhas-kalki-ad-2898-vfx-company-the-embassy-worked-with-ironman-and-more-2667617.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621124852/https://www.tv9hindi.com/entertainment/south-cinema/prabhas-kalki-ad-2898-vfx-company-the-embassy-worked-with-ironman-and-more-2667617.html |archive-date=21 June 2024 |access-date=21 June 2024 |website=TV9 Bharatvarsh |language=hi}}</ref> Their tasks included creating a desert wasteland, [[Concept car|futuristic vehicles]] for high-speed chases, utilising a broad range of VFX techniques, and creating 3 distinct worlds of: [[Varanasi|Kasi]], [[Shambhala]], and the Complex.<ref>{{Cite web |date=11 June 2024 |title=Action-packed 'Kalki 2898 AD' trailer gives a detailed look at the sci-fi world flaunting heavy visual effects - |url=https://www.animationxpress.com/latest-news/action-packed-kalki-2898-ad-trailer-gives-a-detailed-look-at-the-sci-fi-world-flaunting-heavy-visual-effects/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628081202/https://www.animationxpress.com/latest-news/action-packed-kalki-2898-ad-trailer-gives-a-detailed-look-at-the-sci-fi-world-flaunting-heavy-visual-effects/ |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=21 June 2024 |website=animationxpress.com}}</ref>

== Themes and influences ==
The film takes inspiration from [[Hinduism]] as [[Kalki]] is the tenth and final incarnation of [[Vishnu]], who is a messiah during the [[Kali Yuga]]. Bhairava is an apparent reference to [[Bhairava|Kala Bhairava]], an avatar of the Hindu deity [[Shiva]].<ref>https://www.telugucinema.com/news/prabhas-plays-bhairava-in-kalki-2898-ad%3famp</ref> A place that appears in the film, [[Sambhal|Shambhala]] (near modern-day [[Varanasi]]), is prophesied to be the birthplace of Kalki in scriptures. This concept was later borrowed into the [[Kalachakra]] tradition of [[Tibetan Buddhism]] where it is described a mystical kingdom somewhere beyond the [[Himalayas]] and also as a state of mind.<ref>"शम्भल." [[Monier Monier-Williams|Monier-Williams Sanskrit-English Dictionary]]. 1899.</ref><ref>{{Dictionary.com|shambhala}}</ref>

Furthermore, director [[Nag Ashwin]] has openly stated that [[Star Wars]] had a huge influence on him growing up, and that it "is subconsciously a part of my aesthetic" in the making of the film.<ref name="Star Wars">{{Cite web |date=8 July 2024 |title=Not Harry Potter, Nag Ashwin was inspired by these Hollywood films for Kalki 2898 AD |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/not-harry-potter-nag-ashwin-was-inspired-by-these-hollywood-films-for-kalki-2898-ad-2563638-2024-07-08 |access-date=3 July 2025 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref> The character Luke was influenced by [[Luke Skywalker]]. The director also claimed that ''[[Guardians of the Galaxy (film)|Guardians of the Galaxy]]'' (2014) served as an inspiration as well.<ref>{{cite web | title=Nag Ashwin reveals Hollywood movies Guardians of the Galaxy and Star Wars inspired Kalki 2898 AD | url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/entertainment/nag-ashwin-reveals-hollywood-movies-guardians-of-the-galaxy-and-star-wars-inspired-kalki-2898-ad-article-12764485.html }}</ref> [[Kamal Haasan]] showed Ashwin centenarian Tibetan monks and [[Dorian Gray (character)|Dorian Gray]] for inspiration of the look of Yaskin.<ref name="Star Wars"/>

== Music ==
{{Main|Kalki 2898 AD (soundtrack)}}
The music of the film was composed by [[Santhosh Narayanan]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=5 February 2024 |title=Here's What 'Kalki 2898 AD' Music Director Santhosh Narayanan Has In Mind For Prabhas |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/kalki-2898-ad-music-director-santhosh-narayanans-plans-for-prabhas-revealed/articleshow/107417336.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206020024/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/kalki-2898-ad-music-director-santhosh-narayanans-plans-for-prabhas-revealed/articleshow/107417336.cms |archive-date=6 February 2024 |access-date=15 June 2024 |work=The Times of India}}</ref> The audio rights of the film were acquired by [[Saregama]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 May 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD: Saregama Acquires Audio Rights for Prabhas-Amitabh Bachchan Starrer |url=https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-saregama-acquires-audio-rights-for-prabhas-amitabh-bachchan-starrer-enn24051605213 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240524092501/https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-saregama-acquires-audio-rights-for-prabhas-amitabh-bachchan-starrer-enn24051605213 |archive-date=24 May 2024 |access-date=15 June 2024 |website=ETV Bharat}}</ref> The first single titled "Bhairava Anthem" was released on 16 June 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=15 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD: Prabhas and Diljit Dosanjh team up for 'Bhairava Anthem': "India's biggest song" |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/south-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-prabhas-diljit-dosanjh-team-bhairava-anthem-indias-biggest-song/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240616021010/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/south-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-prabhas-diljit-dosanjh-team-bhairava-anthem-indias-biggest-song/ |archive-date=16 June 2024 |access-date=16 June 2024 |website=Bollywood Hungama}}</ref> Three more singles— "Theme of Kalki", "Ta Takkara (Complex Song)" and "Hope of Shambala"—followed on 25 June 2024, 29 June 2024, and 4 July 2024 respectively.<ref>{{Cite news |date=25 June 2024 |title='Theme Of Kalki' Song From 'Kalki 2898 AD' Is An 'Ode To Lord Krishna' – WATCH Video |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/theme-of-kalki-song-from-kalki-2898-ad-is-an-ode-to-lord-krishna-watch-video/articleshow/111266628.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240625215903/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/theme-of-kalki-song-from-kalki-2898-ad-is-an-ode-to-lord-krishna-watch-video/articleshow/111266628.cms |archive-date=25 June 2024 |access-date=25 June 2024 |work=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=29 June 2024 |title=Ta Takkara Complex Song from Kalki 2898 AD: Prabhas, Disha Patani live out their dreams |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/ta-takkara-complex-song-from-kalki-2898-ad-prabhas-disha-patani-live-out-their-dreams-101719646860463.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240629092347/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/ta-takkara-complex-song-from-kalki-2898-ad-prabhas-disha-patani-live-out-their-dreams-101719646860463.html |archive-date=29 June 2024 |access-date=29 June 2024 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=5 July 2024 |title=Hope of Shambala song from Kalki 2898 AD out |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/telugu/news/2024/Jul/05/hope-of-shambala-song-from-kalki-2898-ad-out |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240712172141/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/telugu/news/2024/Jul/05/hope-of-shambala-song-from-kalki-2898-ad-out |archive-date=12 July 2024 |access-date=5 July 2024 |website=Cinema Express}}</ref> The entire [[Kalki 2898 AD (soundtrack)|soundtrack album]] was released on 10 July 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kickstart Your Day With The #Kalki2898AD Album |url=https://x.com/VyjayanthiFilms/status/1811264465855479961 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240822053218/https://x.com/VyjayanthiFilms/status/1811264465855479961 |archive-date=22 August 2024 |access-date=22 August 2024 |website=X (formerly Twitter)}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalki 2898 AD (Telugu) |url=https://open.spotify.com/album/56bqyn7qEMH0yagNm8Jheu?si |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240710132752/https://open.spotify.com/album/56bqyn7qEMH0yagNm8Jheu?si |archive-date=10 July 2024 |access-date=10 July 2024 |publisher=Spotify}}</ref>

== Marketing ==
[[File:2023 San Diego Comic-Con International by Gage Skidmore, 012.jpg|thumb|269x269px|''Kalki 2898 AD'' team at the 2023 [[San Diego Comic-Con]]]]
The film's first look was released on 19 July 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 July 2023 |title=Internet unhappy with Prabhas' first look from 'Project K', call him 'sasta Iron man' |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/internet-unhappy-with-prabhas-first-look-from-project-k-call-him-sasta-iron-man-2408909-2023-07-19 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230721145435/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/internet-unhappy-with-prabhas-first-look-from-project-k-call-him-sasta-iron-man-2408909-2023-07-19 |archive-date=21 July 2023 |access-date=21 July 2023 |website=India Today}}</ref> ''Kalki 2898 A.D'' became the first [[Cinema of India|Indian film]] to be presented at [[San Diego Comic-Con]]'s Hall-H on 20 July 2023. At the event, the makers unveiled the official title and a glimpse of the film, following the release of a [[Limited series (comics)|limited]] [[comic strip]] [[Panel (comics)|panel]] depicting an important scene between "The Raiders" (followers of Kali) and Bhairava.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ramachandran |first=Naman |date=20 July 2023 |title=Prabhas, Deepika Padukone Sci-Fi Film 'Kalki 2898 AD' Teaser Unveiled at San Diego Comic-Con |url=https://variety.com/2023/film/asia/prabhas-deepika-padukone-kalki-2898-ad-tsan-diego-comic-con-1235675612/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230721145435/https://variety.com/2023/film/asia/prabhas-deepika-padukone-kalki-2898-ad-tsan-diego-comic-con-1235675612/ |archive-date=21 July 2023 |access-date=21 July 2023 |website=Variety}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Prabhas Was "Bored" Of The Blue Screen And Then Kalki 2898-AD Teaser Happened |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/rana-daggubati-says-prabhas-can-pass-whole-event-without-saying-a-word-at-comic-con-4228745 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230721145435/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/rana-daggubati-says-prabhas-can-pass-whole-event-without-saying-a-word-at-comic-con-4228745 |archive-date=21 July 2023 |access-date=21 July 2023 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref>

On the occasion of [[Maha Shivaratri|Maha Sivaratri]], the makers released a poster revealing [[Prabhas]]'s character as [[Bhairava]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=9 March 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD': Prabhas' First Look Poster and Character Name Out |url=https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/south-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-prabhas-first-look-poster-and-character-name-out |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240309082324/https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/south-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-prabhas-first-look-poster-and-character-name-out |archive-date=9 March 2024 |access-date=9 March 2024 |work=TheQuint}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Pait Chowdhury |first=Madhumanti |date=8 March 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD New Poster: Presenting Bhairava AKA Prabhas From The "Future Streets Of Kasi" |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-new-poster-presenting-bhairava-aka-prabhas-from-the-future-streets-of-kasi-5201153 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240309082324/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-new-poster-presenting-bhairava-aka-prabhas-from-the-future-streets-of-kasi-5201153 |archive-date=9 March 2024 |access-date=9 March 2024 |publisher=NDTV}}</ref> A new teaser introducing the character [[Ashwatthama]] was unveiled on 21 April 2024. Inspired by the immortal character from the ancient Indian epic ''[[Mahabharata]]'', Ashwatthama was portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Narain |first=Yatamanyu |date=21 April 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD: Amitabh Bachchan Looks Mysterious As Immortal 'Ashwatthama' In FIRST Teaser |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/kalki-2898-ad-amitabh-bachchan-looks-mysterious-immortal-ashwatthama-8860819.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240421142609/https://www.news18.com/movies/kalki-2898-ad-amitabh-bachchan-looks-mysterious-immortal-ashwatthama-8860819.html |archive-date=21 April 2024 |access-date=21 April 2024 |work=News18}}</ref> On 27 April, the makers announced the new release date with a poster featuring Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan and Deepika Padukone.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalki 2898 AD Update: Prabhas And Deepika Padukone's Film Locks New Release Date |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-update-prabhas-and-deepika-padukones-film-locks-release-date-5536447 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240511144526/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-update-prabhas-and-deepika-padukones-film-locks-release-date-5536447 |archive-date=11 May 2024 |access-date=11 May 2024 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref> On 30 April 2024, Prabhas took fans of cinema and cricket by surprise as he appeared as Bhairava for an [[Indian Premier League|IPL]] promotional video during [[Lucknow Super Giants]] vs [[Mumbai Indians]].<ref>{{Cite magazine |date=1 May 2024 |title=Watch: Prabhas surprises audience as Bhairava from 'Kalki 2898 AD' during IPL |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/prabhas-surprises-audience-as-bhairava-kalki-2898-ad-during-ipl-match-2533736-2024-05-01 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240511144526/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/prabhas-surprises-audience-as-bhairava-kalki-2898-ad-during-ipl-match-2533736-2024-05-01 |archive-date=11 May 2024 |access-date=11 May 2024 |magazine=India Today}}</ref> On 2 May 2024, Amitabh Bachchan appeared in his character of Ashwatthama where he delivered a motivational speech to the [[India national cricket team|Indian cricket team]] as they prepare for the [[ICC Men's T20 World Cup]] 2024.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Gupta |first=Hardika |date=3 May 2024 |title=Amitabh Bachchan As Ashwatthama Motivates Team India Ahead Of T20 World Cup 2024. Watch |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/amitabh-bachchan-as-ashwatthama-motivates-team-india-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-2024-watch-5579530 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240511144527/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/amitabh-bachchan-as-ashwatthama-motivates-team-india-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-2024-watch-5579530 |archive-date=11 May 2024 |access-date=11 May 2024 |publisher=NDTV}}</ref>

On 22 May 2024, in an event in [[Ramoji Film City]] in [[Hyderabad]], a teaser introducing Prabhas' Robot sidekick [[Artificial intelligence|AI]] [[humanoid]] vehicle "Bujji" was released.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Nyayapati |first=Neeshita |date=22 May 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD: Prabhas' sidekick Bujji's 'body' introduced with new teaser at an event. Watch |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-prabhas-sidekick-bujjis-body-introduced-with-new-teaser-at-an-event-watch-101716384280915.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240522162824/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-prabhas-sidekick-bujjis-body-introduced-with-new-teaser-at-an-event-watch-101716384280915.html |archive-date=22 May 2024 |access-date=22 May 2024 |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref> [[Anand Mahindra]] wrote, "we are so proud of Nag Ashwin and his tribe of filmmakers who aren't afraid to think big," while he shared that the engineers at [[Mahindra World City, Chennai|Mahindra Research Valley]] helped the ''Kalki 2898 AD'' team realise its vision for the futuristic vehicle.<ref>{{Cite news |date=24 May 2024 |title=How Prabhas' Kalki 2898 AD Partner "Bujji" Was Born? Anand Mahindra Reveals |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/how-prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-partner-bujji-was-born-anand-mahindra-reveals-5734161 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240524114013/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/how-prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-partner-bujji-was-born-anand-mahindra-reveals-5734161 |archive-date=24 May 2024 |access-date=24 May 2024 |publisher=NDTV}}</ref> On 27 May 2024, the makers and [[Amazon Prime Video]] announced a two-part animated prelude, titled ''[[Bujji and Bhairava]]'', which was released on the platform on 31 May 2024 as part of the Kalki Cinematic Universe.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 May 2024 |title=Bujji and Bhairava's animated prelude from Prabhas-starrer Kalki 2898 AD to release soon. Watch |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/bujji-and-bhairava-s-animated-prelude-from-prabhas-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-to-release-soon-watch-101716821236376.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240527180404/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/bujji-and-bhairava-s-animated-prelude-from-prabhas-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-to-release-soon-watch-101716821236376.html |archive-date=27 May 2024 |access-date=27 May 2024 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=27 May 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD prelude titled Bujji and Bhairava; to start streaming from this date |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/kalki-2898-ad-prelude-titled-bujji-and-bhairava-9355256/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240527180401/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/kalki-2898-ad-prelude-titled-bujji-and-bhairava-9355256/ |archive-date=27 May 2024 |access-date=27 May 2024 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> The official trailer of the film was released on 10 June 2024.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Sharma |first=Devansh |date=10 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD trailer: Prabhas, Deepika Padukone sci-fi film is packed with action and worldbuilding. Watch |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-trailer-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-kamal-haasan-watch-101718025573341.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240610144255/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-trailer-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-kamal-haasan-watch-101718025573341.html |archive-date=10 June 2024 |access-date=10 June 2024 |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref> [[Concept art]]ists Sung Choi and Oliver Beck, alleged that the initial frames of the trailer used their artwork without permission or credits, the latter's from the artwork for ''[[Star Trek: Prodigy]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rawal |first=Sugandha |date=13 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD scene stolen from South Korean artiste's artwork? Internet advises him to sue production team |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/kalki-2898-ad-scene-stolen-from-south-korean-artistes-artwork-internet-calls-it-shameful-terrible-101718256823426.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240613235737/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/kalki-2898-ad-scene-stolen-from-south-korean-artistes-artwork-internet-calls-it-shameful-terrible-101718256823426.html |archive-date=13 June 2024 |access-date=13 June 2024 |website=[[Hindustan Times]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Maru |first=Vibha |date=21 June 2024 |title=Exclusive {{!}} Hollywood concept artist reveals Kalki 2898 AD makers approached him, later copied his work in trailer: 'Too much of a coincidence' |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/hollywood-concept-artist-reveals-kalki-2898-ad-makers-approached-him-later-copied-his-work-9403938/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240622015954/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/hollywood-concept-artist-reveals-kalki-2898-ad-makers-approached-him-later-copied-his-work-9403938/ |archive-date=22 June 2024 |access-date=22 June 2024 |work=The Indian Express}}</ref> On 19 June 2024, a prerelease event was held in Mumbai, with Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, Rana Daggubati, and the film's producers attending the event.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 June 2024 |title=Prabhas and Kamal Haasan in Mumbai to attend Kalki 2898 AD pre-release event. Watch |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/prabhas-and-kamal-haasan-in-mumbai-to-attend-kalki-2898-ad-pre-release-event-watch-101718783253130.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619084858/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/prabhas-and-kamal-haasan-in-mumbai-to-attend-kalki-2898-ad-pre-release-event-watch-101718783253130.html |archive-date=19 June 2024 |access-date=19 June 2024 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}</ref> The release-trailer of the film was released on 21 June 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Release Trailer: Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, And Kamal Haasan Steal The Internet By Storm – WATCH |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/kalki-2898-ad-release-trailer-prabhas-amitabh-bachchan-deepika-padukone-and-kamal-haasan-steal-the-internet-by-storm-watc2 |access-date=21 June 2024 |website=The Times of India}}</ref> The theme song of the film, "Theme of Kalki", was unveiled on the evening of 23 June 2024 in [[Krishna|Lord Krishna]]'s birthplace, [[Mathura]], [[Uttar Pradesh]], along the banks of the [[Yamuna]] river.<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 June 2024 |title=Theme Song Of Prabhas-Deepika Padukone-Starrer 'Kalki 2898 AD' To Be Unveiled In Mathura |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/theme-song-of-prabhas-deepika-padukone-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-to-be-unveiled-in-mathura |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240623204139/https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/theme-song-of-prabhas-deepika-padukone-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-to-be-unveiled-in-mathura |archive-date=23 June 2024 |access-date=24 June 2024 |website=Outlook India |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=23 June 2024 |title='Theme of Kalki', the next song from 'Kalki 2898 AD' to be unveiled at Lord Krishna's birthplace, Mathura |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/theme-of-kalki-the-next-song-from-kalki-2898-ad-to-be-unveiled-at-lord-krishnas-birthplace-mathura/articleshow/111208440.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240624015649/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/theme-of-kalki-the-next-song-from-kalki-2898-ad-to-be-unveiled-at-lord-krishnas-birthplace-mathura/articleshow/111208440.cms |archive-date=24 June 2024 |access-date=24 June 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> Additionally, an interview conversation featuring Prabhas, Bachchan, Haasan, and Padukone, along with the producers, was also released on [[YouTube]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=24 June 2024 |title=Big B apologises to Prabhas' fans: Don't massacre me after you see 'Kalki 2898 AD' |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/amitabh-bachchan-apologises-to-prabhas-fans-dont-massacre-me-after-you-see-kalki-2898-ad-2557100-2024-06-24 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240624050218/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/amitabh-bachchan-apologises-to-prabhas-fans-dont-massacre-me-after-you-see-kalki-2898-ad-2557100-2024-06-24 |archive-date=24 June 2024 |access-date=24 June 2024 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>

== Release ==

=== Theatrical ===
''Kalki 2898 AD'' was released in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada languages.<ref>{{Cite news |date=6 March 2022 |title=Prabhas recalls his first conversation with Deepika Padukone: 'She asked me if I'm shy. I said....' |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/prabhas-recalls-his-first-conversation-with-deepika-padukone-on-project-k-sets-she-asked-me-if-i-m-shy-101646557482024.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220608175542/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/prabhas-recalls-his-first-conversation-with-deepika-padukone-on-project-k-sets-she-asked-me-if-i-m-shy-101646557482024.html |archive-date=8 June 2022 |work=[[Hindustan Times]]}}</ref> The film was initially planned to be released in 2022, but was delayed to 9 May 2024 due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]] and unfinished production works.<ref>{{Cite news |date=8 May 2020 |title=Prabhas' next with Nag Ashwin to go on floors from October. Release in 2022 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/prabhas-next-with-nag-ashwin-to-go-on-floors-from-october-release-in-2022/articleshow/75618307.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220729075120/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/prabhas-next-with-nag-ashwin-to-go-on-floors-from-october-release-in-2022/articleshow/75618307.cms |archive-date=29 July 2022 |access-date=26 May 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> It was, however, postponed again from 9 May to 27 June, owing to the [[2024 Indian general election]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=27 April 2024 |title=Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan starrer Kalki 2898 AD to release on June 27 |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-release-june-27/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427123602/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-release-june-27/ |archive-date=27 April 2024 |access-date=27 April 2024 |work=Bollywood Hungama}}</ref>

Pre-bookings started in the United States on 6 June 2024, three weeks before the film's release. Nearly 4,200 tickets were sold on the first day of pre-bookings with a collection of {{USD|135 thousand}}.<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 June 2024 |title=Prabhas' Kalki 2898 AD mints over Rs 1 crore in advance booking in just one day |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/box-office/prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-mints-over-rs-1-crore-in-advance-booking-in-just-one-day/articleshow/110785349.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240624002610/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/box-office/prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-mints-over-rs-1-crore-in-advance-booking-in-just-one-day/articleshow/110785349.cms |archive-date=24 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> Pre-bookings started in the UK, Canada and in Germany on 11 June 2024, two weeks before the film's release. After the trailer was released, the advance booking for the film in the US crossed over US$760K.<ref>{{Cite news |date=11 June 2024 |title=Prabhas' Kalki 2898 AD sees a major push in North America advance booking post trailer release; earns over Rs 6 crore in just 5 days |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/box-office/prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-sees-a-major-push-in-north-america-advance-booking-post-trailer-release-earns-over-rs-6-crore-in-just-5-days/articleshow/110897971.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240612011621/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/box-office/prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-sees-a-major-push-in-north-america-advance-booking-post-trailer-release-earns-over-rs-6-crore-in-just-5-days/articleshow/110897971.cms |archive-date=12 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> 20,000 tickets were sold for the film's premiere in the UK.<ref>{{Cite news |date=26 June 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD' bookings: Makers share sales numbers for the Prabhas-starrer's premiere shows |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kalki-2898-ad-bookings-makers-share-sales-numbers-for-the-prabhas-starrers-premiere-shows/article68335978.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627054403/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kalki-2898-ad-bookings-makers-share-sales-numbers-for-the-prabhas-starrers-premiere-shows/article68335978.ece |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> Pre-bookings in the US crossed US$1 million in fewer days than [[S. S. Rajamouli]]'s ''[[RRR]]'' (2022), thus becoming the fastest Indian film to achieve this feat.<ref>{{Cite web |date=13 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Beats RRR; Becomes The Fastest Indian Film To Surpass $1 Million In Pre-Sales In The US |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/telugu/kalki-2898-ad-beats-rrr-becomes-the-fastest-indian-film-to-surpass-1-million-in-pre-sales-in-the-us-article-110954543 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240613104920/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/telugu/kalki-2898-ad-beats-rrr-becomes-the-fastest-indian-film-to-surpass-1-million-in-pre-sales-in-the-us-article-110954543 |archive-date=13 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=Times Now |language=en}}</ref>

The film was invited to 'Open Cinema' at the [[29th Busan International Film Festival]] and was screened at the outdoor theatre in October 2024.<ref name="biff:variety">{{Cite magazine |last=Frater |first=Patrick |date=3 September 2024 |title=Busan Film Festival Sets Park Chan-wook Scripted Netflix Title 'Uprising' as Opener, Expands Program Despite Slashed Funding |url=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/busan-film-festival-program-funding-cut-1236127897/ |access-date=7 September 2024 |magazine=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title='Kalki 2898 AD' to be screened at Busan International Film Festival |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/kalki-2898-ad-to-be-screened-at-busan-international-film-festival/articleshow/113689229.cms |access-date=26 September 2024 |work=Times of India}}</ref> It was featured at the [[55th International Film Festival of India|55th IFFI]] in the Indian Panorama Mainstream section.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Prakash |first=B. V. S. |date=20 November 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD, 35 Chinna Katha Kaadu in IFFI race |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-35-chinna-katha-kaadu-in-iffi-race-1839758 |website=www.deccanchronicle.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Press Release:Press Information Bureau |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2067711}}</ref>

=== Distribution ===
[[Annapurna Studios]] along with [[Vyjayanthi Movies#Swapna Cinema|Swapna Cinema]] distributed the film across [[Andhra Pradesh]] and [[Telangana]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/AnnapurnaStdios/status/1805966811210694887?t=NohIqJ8sN6hnE2tI1_cLVg&s=19}}</ref> Global Cinemas acquired the Nizam area distribution rights<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 April 2024 |title=Prabhas' Kalki 2898 AD Nizam Rights Sold For a Record Price |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/telugu/prabhas-kalki-2898-ad-nizam-rights-sold-for-a-record-price-article-109702924 |access-date=29 April 2024 |website=Times Now}}</ref> while [[Dulquer Salmaan]]'s Wayfarer Films acquired the distribution rights in [[Kerala]] for ₹6 crores.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Santhosh |first=Vivek |date=12 June 2024 |title=Dulquer Salmaan's Wayfarer Films has acquired the Kerala distribution rights for Prabhas-starrer Kalki 2898 AD |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2024/Jun/12/dulquer-salmaans-wayfarer-films-has-acquired-the-kerala-distribution-rights-for-prabhas-starrer-kalki-2898-ad |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627090305/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2024/Jun/12/dulquer-salmaans-wayfarer-films-has-acquired-the-kerala-distribution-rights-for-prabhas-starrer-kalki-2898-ad |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=Cinema Express |language=en}}</ref> [[KVN Productions]] acquired the distribution rights in [[Karnataka]] for ₹30 crores,<ref>{{Cite web |date=1 June 2024 |title=KVN Productions Bags Karnataka Distribution Rights For Prabhas-Starrer Kalki 2898 AD |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/telugu/kvn-productions-bags-karnataka-distribution-rights-for-prabhas-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-article-110615575 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240601144140/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/telugu/kvn-productions-bags-karnataka-distribution-rights-for-prabhas-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-article-110615575 |archive-date=1 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=Times Now |language=en}}</ref> while the distribution rights for [[North India]] were acquired by Anil Thadani of [[AA Films]] for ₹100 crores.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 April 2024 |title=AA Films Bets Big on Pan-India Films |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/bollywood/pushpa-2-kalki-devara-game-changer-anil-thadanis-aa-lineup-889803 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427124412/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/bollywood/pushpa-2-kalki-devara-game-changer-anil-thadanis-aa-lineup-889803 |archive-date=27 April 2024 |access-date=16 April 2024 |website=Deccan Chronicle}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=16 April 2024 |title=Business Talk: Kalki and Indian 2 fetch hefty advance in North India from Anil Thadani and Pen Marudhar |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/business-talk-kalki-and-indian-2-fetch-hefty-advance-in-north-india-from-anil-thadani-and-pen-marudhar-1296108 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240417104046/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/business-talk-kalki-and-indian-2-fetch-hefty-advance-in-north-india-from-anil-thadani-and-pen-marudhar-1296108 |archive-date=17 April 2024 |access-date=18 April 2024 |website=Pinkvilla}}</ref> The [[Tamil Nadu]] distribution rights were acquired by Sri Lakshmi Movies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=x.com |url=https://x.com/SriLakshmiMovie/status/1806212002978967820?t=ih6o7Po-nrGm0a0eRAQzSw&s=19}}</ref> Prathyangira Cinemas along with AA Creations acquired the distribution rights across North America.<ref>{{Cite news |date=25 May 2024 |title=Prabhas and Deepika Padukone starrer 'Kalki 2898 AD' earns Rs 50 crore from North America theatrical rights |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/prabhas-and-deepika-padukone-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-earns-rs-50-crore-from-north-america-theatrical-rights/articleshow/110418224.cms |access-date=25 May 2024 |work=Times of India}}</ref>

=== Prerelease business ===
According to Indian trade sources, the prerelease business of ''Kalki 2898 AD'' included the sale of satellite, digital, music, and theatrical rights, with ₹390 crore earned from theatrical rights.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Pre Release Business: Prabhas, Deepika film Valued at 390Cr Plus Worldwide for Box Office Rights |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/kalki-2898-ad-pre-release-business-prabhas-deepika-film-valued-at-380cr-plus-worldwide-for-box-office-rights-1319577 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240625213241/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/kalki-2898-ad-pre-release-business-prabhas-deepika-film-valued-at-380cr-plus-worldwide-for-box-office-rights-1319577 |archive-date=25 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=PINKVILLA |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1 July 2024 |title=Indian Sci-Fi Epic 'Kalki 2898 AD' Bows in Third Place Worldwide as 'Inside Out 2,' 'A Quiet Place: Day One' Lead International Box Office |url=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/kalki-2898-ad-inside-out-2-a-quiet-place-day-one-international-box-office-1236057781/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701084019/https://variety.com/2024/film/news/kalki-2898-ad-inside-out-2-a-quiet-place-day-one-international-box-office-1236057781/ |archive-date=1 July 2024 |access-date=1 July 2024 |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |quote=Vyjayanthi Movies' "Kalki 2898 AD," one of the most expensive Indian films ever made with the budget estimated to be $72 million, had a $43 million worldwide three-day weekend, including $5.4 million in North America. The film released on Thursday, June 27, across 42 territories, and its total worldwide gross is currently at $66 million, including previews and $10 million from North America, where it debuted in fifth place.}}</ref> The film's overseas distribution rights were acquired by The Village Groupe for ₹80 crore.<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 June 2024 |title=Kalki: Prabhas' Biggest Test Without SSR |url=https://www.m9.news/movienews/kalki-2898-ad-box-office-biggest-test-for-prabhas-without-rajamouli/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240623042506/https://www.m9.news/movienews/kalki-2898-ad-box-office-biggest-test-for-prabhas-without-rajamouli/ |archive-date=23 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=M9.news |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== Home media ===
The post-theatrical digital streaming rights were acquired by [[Amazon Prime Video]] for {{INR|200 crores}}, while [[Netflix]] acquired the rights for {{INR|175 crores}}.<ref name=":0" /> It premiered on Amazon Prime Video on 22 August 2024 in Telugu along with the [[Tamil language|Tamil]], [[Malayalam]] and [[Kannada]] dubbed versions, while the [[Hindi]] dubbed version was released simultaneously on Netflix.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |date=27 June 2024 |title=Two OTT Platforms Acquire Kalki 2898 AD Streaming Rights: Report |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/two-ott-platforms-acquire-kalki-2898-ad-streaming-rights-report-8946751.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627111028/https://www.news18.com/movies/two-ott-platforms-acquire-kalki-2898-ad-streaming-rights-report-8946751.html |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=News18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hungama |first=Bollywood |date=19 August 2024 |title=EXPLAINED: Why the Prabhas starrer Kalki 2898 AD and other Pan-India films are available on different streaming giants 2898 : Bollywood News - Bollywood Hungama |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/explained-prabhas-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-pan-india-films-available-different-streaming-giants/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240821192309/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/explained-prabhas-starrer-kalki-2898-ad-pan-india-films-available-different-streaming-giants/ |archive-date=21 August 2024 |access-date=22 August 2024 |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=22 August 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD released on OTT: Where to watch Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam language versions |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/kalki-2898-ad-released-on-ott-where-to-watch-hindi-telugu-tamil-kannada-malayalam-language-versions/articleshow/112696620.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240822072147/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/kalki-2898-ad-released-on-ott-where-to-watch-hindi-telugu-tamil-kannada-malayalam-language-versions/articleshow/112696620.cms?from=mdr |archive-date=22 August 2024 |access-date=22 August 2024 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 August 2024 |title=Prabhas starrer Kalki 2898 AD to stream on both Amazon Prime Video and Netflix from August 22 |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/kalki-2989-ad-premiere-globally-prime-video-august-22/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240821051230/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/kalki-2989-ad-premiere-globally-prime-video-august-22/ |archive-date=21 August 2024 |access-date=21 August 2024 |website=Bollywood Hungama}}</ref> The satellite rights were acquired by [[Zee Entertainment Enterprises]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 January 2025 |title=Zee Telugu to premiere Kalki 2898 AD this Sankranti |url=https://www.medianews4u.com/zee-telugu-to-premiere-kalki-2898-ad-this-sankranti/ |access-date=2 February 2025 |website=medianews4u.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

== Reception ==
=== Box office ===
''Kalki 2898 AD'' grossed ₹180 crore worldwide on its opening day, which was the third [[List of highest-grossing Indian films|highest first day gross for an Indian film]], with over ₹95 crore gross from India.<ref>{{Cite news |date=28 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD surpasses global opening records, collects Rs 95 crore on day 1 |url=https://www.indiatodayne.in/entertainment/story/kalki-2898-ad-surpasses-global-opening-records-collects-rs-95-crore-on-day-1-1038009-2024-06-28 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628155658/https://www.indiatodayne.in/entertainment/story/kalki-2898-ad-surpasses-global-opening-records-collects-rs-95-crore-on-day-1-1038009-2024-06-28 |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=28 June 2024 |work=India Today NE}}</ref> The film recorded the biggest opening for an Indian film in 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD worldwide box office collection day 1: Prabhas, Deepika Padukone's film collects ₹191.5 crore |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-worldwide-box-office-collection-day-1-prabhas-deepika-padukones-film-collects-191-5-crore-101719563153677.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240629103820/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-worldwide-box-office-collection-day-1-prabhas-deepika-padukones-film-collects-191-5-crore-101719563153677.html |archive-date=29 June 2024 |access-date=29 June 2024 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref> The film almost crossed ₹250 crore in two days, earning ₹149.3 crore from India.<ref>{{Cite news |date=29 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD box office collections: Prabhas film has a strong hold on day 2, Tops 250cr worldwide |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/kalki-2898-ad-box-office-collections-prabhas-film-has-a-strong-hold-on-day-2-tops-250cr-worldwide-1322339 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240629090744/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/kalki-2898-ad-box-office-collections-prabhas-film-has-a-strong-hold-on-day-2-tops-250cr-worldwide-1322339 |archive-date=29 June 2024 |access-date=29 June 2024 |work=Pinkvilla}}</ref> ''Kalki 2898 AD'' debuted in third place at the worldwide box office, behind ''[[Inside Out 2]]'' and ''[[A Quiet Place: Day One]]'' in their opening weekends.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ramachandran |first=Naman |date=1 July 2024 |title=Indian Sci-Fi Epic 'Kalki 2898 AD' Bows in Third Place Worldwide as 'Inside Out 2,' 'A Quiet Place: Day One' Lead International Box Office |url=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/kalki-2898-ad-inside-out-2-a-quiet-place-day-one-international-box-office-1236057781/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240709121117/https://variety.com/2024/film/news/kalki-2898-ad-inside-out-2-a-quiet-place-day-one-international-box-office-1236057781/ |archive-date=9 July 2024 |access-date=1 July 2024 |website=Variety |language=en-US}}</ref> It grossed an estimated ₹484 crore worldwide from its opening weekend of four days,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Jatinder |date=1 July 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD box office collections: Prabhas starrer opens with USD 17M overseas for 480cr+ worldwide |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/kalki-2898-ad-box-office-collections-prabhas-starrer-opens-with-usd-17m-overseas-for-475cr-worldwide-1322760 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701065729/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/kalki-2898-ad-box-office-collections-prabhas-starrer-opens-with-usd-17m-overseas-for-475cr-worldwide-1322760 |archive-date=1 July 2024 |access-date=1 July 2024 |website=[[Pinkvilla]]}}</ref> and ₹800 crore in 11 days of release.<ref>{{Cite news |date=6 July 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD' crosses Rs 800 crore mark at global box-office |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kalki-2898-ad-crosses-rs-800-crore-mark-at-global-box-office/article68374479.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240707011705/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kalki-2898-ad-crosses-rs-800-crore-mark-at-global-box-office/article68374479.ece |archive-date=7 July 2024 |access-date=7 July 2024 |work=The Hindu |issn=0971-751X |agency=Press Trust of India}}</ref> It became the fourth highest-grossing Indian film of all time in India, surpassing [[Shah Rukh Khan]]'s ''[[Jawan (film)|Jawan]]'' (2023) in 40 days.<ref name="india today-2024">{{Cite news |date=7 August 2024 |title='Kalki' finally beats 'Jawan' at box office, becomes 4th highest-grossing Indian film |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/kalki-2898-ad-finally-beats-jawan-box-office-becomes-4th-highest-grossing-indian-film-of-all-time-prabhas-vs-shah-rukh-khan-2578212-2024-08-07 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240807120648/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/kalki-2898-ad-finally-beats-jawan-box-office-becomes-4th-highest-grossing-indian-film-of-all-time-prabhas-vs-shah-rukh-khan-2578212-2024-08-07 |archive-date=7 August 2024 |access-date=8 August 2024 |work=[[India Today]]}}</ref><ref name="moneycontrol-2024">{{Cite news |date=6 August 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD box office collection: Prabhas' sci-fi drama BEATS Shah Rukh Khan's Jawan as it becomes the fourth highest grossing film in India |url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-box-office-collection-prabhas-sci-fi-drama-beats-shah-rukh-khans-jawan-as-it-becomes-the-fourth-highest-grossing-film-in-india-article-12788999.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240806145741/https://www.moneycontrol.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-box-office-collection-prabhas-sci-fi-drama-beats-shah-rukh-khans-jawan-as-it-becomes-the-fourth-highest-grossing-film-in-india-article-12788999.html |archive-date=6 August 2024 |access-date=6 August 2024 |work=Moneycontrol}}</ref> During its theatrical run of over 50 days, the film has grossed {{Estimation}}₹1,180 crore worldwide against a production budget of ₹600 crore.{{efn|name="kalki"|''Kalki 2898 AD''{{'s}} reported worldwide grosses vary between ₹1,042 (''[[The Financial Express (India)]]''<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 December 2024 |title=Changing dynamics of box-office as Indian movies break records in 2024 – List of six highest grossing films |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/life/entertainment-changing-dynamics-of-box-office-as-indian-movies-break-records-in-2024-list-of-six-highest-grossing-films-3697006/ |access-date=31 December 2024 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}</ref>) –₹1,052.5 crore (''[[ThePrint]]''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Das |first=Tina |date=31 December 2024 |title=Telugu films were most successful in 2024. No wonder Anurag Kashyap wants to ditch Bollywood |url=https://theprint.in/feature/telugu-films-were-most-successful-in-2024-no-wonder-anurag-kashyap-wants-to-ditch-bollywood/2425845/ |access-date=31 December 2024 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref>) – ₹1,100 crore (''[[Deccan Chronicle]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 August 2024 |title=Confirmed: Prabhas' Kalki 2898 AD to stream on Prime Video from this date! |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/ott/confirmed-kalki-2898-ad-to-stream-on-prime-video-from-this-date-1817078 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240827134626/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/ott/confirmed-kalki-2898-ad-to-stream-on-prime-video-from-this-date-1817078 |archive-date=27 August 2024 |access-date=27 August 2024 |website=Deccan Chronicle}}</ref> ''Business Standard'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rawat |first=Sudeep Singh |date=30 August 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD sequel shooting to begin in 2025, the producers confirm |url=https://www.business-standard.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-sequel-shooting-to-begin-in-2025-the-producers-confirm-124083001005_1.html |website=Business Standard}}</ref> ''[[Deccan Herald]]'',<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 August 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD' to stream on Prime Video from August 22 |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-to-stream-on-prime-video-from-august-22-3154110 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817231702/https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-to-stream-on-prime-video-from-august-22-3154110 |archive-date=17 August 2024 |access-date=27 August 2024 |website=Deccan Herald}}</ref> ''[[Hindustan Times]]''<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 August 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD starts streaming now: Where to watch Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan's new film |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-starts-streaming-now-where-to-watch-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-new-film-101724296684337.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240827134506/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-starts-streaming-now-where-to-watch-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-new-film-101724296684337.html |archive-date=27 August 2024 |access-date=27 August 2024 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref> and [[The Statesman (India)|''The Statesman'']]<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 July 2024 |title=Deepika shines as 'Sumathi' in Kalki 2898 AD, film hits 1100 cr |url=https://www.thestatesman.com/entertainment/deepika-shines-as-sumathi-in-kalki-2898-ad-film-hits-1100-cr-1503325486.html/amp |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240728173403/https://www.thestatesman.com/entertainment/deepika-shines-as-sumathi-in-kalki-2898-ad-film-hits-1100-cr-1503325486.html/amp |archive-date=28 July 2024 |access-date=27 August 2024 |website=The Statesman}}</ref>)}}

=== Critical response ===
While ''[[Deccan Chronicle]]'' mentioned mixed reviews and [[WION]] wrote that the film "failed to impress", ''[[India Today]]'' commented that the reviews were positive.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Prabhas's Kalki 2898 AD OTT Release Details |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/ott/kalki-2898-ad-digital-streaming-on-amazon-prime-video-901198 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628152620/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/ott/kalki-2898-ad-digital-streaming-on-amazon-prime-video-901198 |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=1 July 2024 |website=Deccan Chronicle |quote=The film has received mixed feedback with both critics and the public pointing out its strengths and weaknesses.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Twitter Review: Netizens hail Amitabh Bachchan's age-defying performance |url=https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-kalki-2898-ad-twitter-review-netizens-hail-amitabh-bachchans-age-defying-performance-735709 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240701174515/https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-kalki-2898-ad-twitter-review-netizens-hail-amitabh-bachchans-age-defying-performance-735709 |archive-date=1 July 2024 |access-date=1 July 2024 |publisher=WION |quote=Speaking of critics' opinion, Nag Ashwin's movie has failed to impress them. Many have slammed the convoluted plot, while others questioned whether the VFX was the only thing that the makers have solely focused on.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=28 June 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD' box office Day 1: Prabhas's film opens to whopping Rs 180 crore? |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/kalki-2898-ad-box-office-day-1-prabhass-film-opens-to-whopping-rs-180-crore-2559355-2024-06-28 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628025458/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/kalki-2898-ad-box-office-day-1-prabhass-film-opens-to-whopping-rs-180-crore-2559355-2024-06-28 |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=28 June 2024 |website=India Today |language=en |quote=The film received positive reviews with a few complaints about a slow first half.}}</ref> {{Rotten Tomatoes prose|score=77|count=39|average=7.1|consensus=A colourful spectacle that competes with Hollywood blockbusters while retaining its own distinctive flavor, Kalki 2898 AD marks a rousing breakthrough in Tollywood sci-fi cinema.|ref=yes |access-date=25 July 2024}} {{Metacritic film prose|1=65|2=8}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalki 2898 AD Reviews |url=https://www.metacritic.com/movie/kalki-2898-ad/ |access-date=2 February 2025 |website=www.metacritic.com |language=en}}</ref>

A critic for ''[[Bollywood Hungama]]'' rated the film 4 stars out of 5 and wrote, "On the whole, ''Kalki 2898 AD'' stands as a grandiose spectacle that depicts the future like never before in Indian cinema and also merges mythology seamlessly, thereby delivering a unique experience to the audiences."<ref>{{Cite news |last=Hungama |first=Bollywood |date=27 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Movie Review: KALKI 2898 AD delivers a unique experience to audiences. |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/kalki-2898-ad/critic-review/kalki-2898-ad-movie-review/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627083822/https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/kalki-2898-ad/critic-review/kalki-2898-ad-movie-review/ |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=[[Bollywood Hungama]]}}</ref> Chirag Sehgal of [[News18 India|''News18'']] gave 4/5 stars and wrote, "It combines action with visual spectacle and mythology with technology and science – which makes the film worth watching."<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Review: Prabhas Impresses As Modern-Day 'Karan' But It Is Amitabh Bachchan's Show |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/kalki-2898-ad-review-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-kamal-haasan-8946200.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627074723/https://www.news18.com/movies/kalki-2898-ad-review-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-kamal-haasan-8946200.html |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=News18 |language=en}}</ref> Goutam S of ''[[Pinkvilla]]'' gave 4/5 stars and wrote, "If you are a lover of films which has a grand scale, [''sic''] epic narration, amazing visuals, groundbreaking performances, and unbelievable storytelling, then surely watch this feast of a movie in the screens near you."<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Movie Review: Prabhas starrer is a glorious epic feast with Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan capturing everyone's attention |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/reviews/kalki-2898-ad-movie-review-prabhas-starrer-is-a-glorious-epic-feast-with-amitabh-bachchan-and-kamal-haasan-capturing-everyones-attention-1321497 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627102031/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/reviews/kalki-2898-ad-movie-review-prabhas-starrer-is-a-glorious-epic-feast-with-amitabh-bachchan-and-kamal-haasan-capturing-everyones-attention-1321497 |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=PINKVILLA |language=en}}</ref> ''[[The Guardian]]'' gave a rating of 4 out of 5, describing it as a "maximalist sci-fi epic that mixes ''[[Mahabharata]]'' with ''[[Mad Max]]''."<ref>{{Cite news |last=Felperin |first=Leslie |date=28 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD review – maximalist sci-fi epic mixes Mahabharata with Mad Max |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/article/2024/jun/28/kalki-2898-ad-review-amitabh-bachchan-sci-fi-movie-mahabharata-mad-max |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240709121117/https://www.theguardian.com/film/article/2024/jun/28/kalki-2898-ad-review-amitabh-bachchan-sci-fi-movie-mahabharata-mad-max |archive-date=9 July 2024 |access-date=2 July 2024 |work=[[The Guardian]] |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> Janani K of ''[[India Today]]'' gave 3.5/5 stars and wrote, "Like [[Baahubali: The Beginning|''Baahubali'']], ''Kalki 2898 AD'' ends on a cliffhanger and paves the way for a new cinematic world altogether. The surprise cameos, even though leaked by Prabhas himself, were perfect theatrical moments."<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Review: Prabhas reigns supreme, Big B and Deepika Padukone exceptional |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/reviews/story/kalki-2898-ad-review-prabhas-supremacy-reign-amitabh-bachchan-deepika-padukone-impress-2558959-2024-06-27 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627091356/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/reviews/story/kalki-2898-ad-review-prabhas-supremacy-reign-amitabh-bachchan-deepika-padukone-impress-2558959-2024-06-27 |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref> [[Collider (website)|''Collider'']] in its review said, "''Kalki 2898 AD'' is a unique sci-fi epic that successfully combines supernatural elements with cutting-edge technology", while appreciating performances of the lead cast particularly Prabhas and Bachchan, and the screenplay by Nag Ashwin.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ewing |first=Jeff |date=28 June 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD' Review: This Ambitious Sci-Fi Epic Builds a World Worth Seeing |url=https://collider.com/kalki-2898-ad-review/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628190405/https://collider.com/kalki-2898-ad-review/ |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=2 July 2024 |website=[[Collider (website)|Collider]] |language=en}}</ref>

[[Sukanya Verma]] of ''[[Rediff.com|Rediff]]'' rated the film 3.5 out of 5 stars and wrote, "Prabhas may be the face of ''Kalki 2898 AD'''s heroics but the real bang for your buck is delivered in Amitabh Bachchan's indefatigable energy providing Kalki's biggest wolf-whistle moments."<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Review: The Force Is Strong |url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/review/kalki-2898-ad-review/20240627.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627132552/https://m.rediff.com/movies/review/kalki-2898-ad-review/20240627.htm |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=Rediff}}</ref> Ronek Kotecha of ''[[The Times of India]]'' gave 3/5 stars and wrote, "The film's visual quality is so high that it overshadows many of its obvious flaws by engaging the audience into the atmospherics of the make-believe world of Kasi and the Complex."<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 – AD Movie Review : Big B's powerful punches and stunning visuals shine above the film's flaws |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/kalki-2898-ad/movie-review/111302049.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627054407/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/kalki-2898-ad/movie-review/111302049.cms |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> Sashidar Adivi of ''[[Times Now]]'' gave 3/5 stars and wrote, "Overall, the film is a VFX wonder. The setup and the universe are brilliant, however, the writing needs introspection."<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD Movie Review: Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone's Dystopian Film Is A VFX Wonder |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/reviews/telugu/kalki-2898-ad-movie-review-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-kamal-haasans-dystopian-film-is-complex-and-gripping-review-111285500 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627054319/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/reviews/telugu/kalki-2898-ad-movie-review-prabhas-deepika-padukone-amitabh-bachchan-kamal-haasans-dystopian-film-is-complex-and-gripping-review-111285500 |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=Times Now |language=en}}</ref> Avad Mohammed of ''[[HT Media|OTTPlay]]'' gave 3/5 stars and wrote, "On the whole, ''Kalki 2898 AD'' is a technically brilliant film with never-before-seen visuals in an Indian film. The presence of A-listers and amazing action episodes make for a big-screen watch. Just ignore the slow pace."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalki 2898 AD Review – A visual spectacle that commands a big screen watch |url=https://www.ottplay.com/review/kalki-2898-ad-review-a-visual-spectacle-that-commands-a-big-screen-watch/65e2a836a4508 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627102032/https://www.ottplay.com/review/kalki-2898-ad-review-a-visual-spectacle-that-commands-a-big-screen-watch/65e2a836a4508 |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=OTTPlay |language=en}}</ref>

Bunbury of ''[[Deadline Hollywood]]'' wrote, "It is terrific, cathartic fun – and, given that Vishnu's next avatar has apparently yet to be born, what is described in the marketing blurbs as the Kalki Cinematic Universe can be expected to rage, burn and rip-roar for a good few editions yet, leaving audiences happily flattened with exhaustion" and praised Nag Ashwin's work.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bunbury |first=Stephanie |date=1 July 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD' Review: Prabhas Epic Is Terrific, Cathartic Fun |url=https://deadline.com/2024/07/kalki-2898-ad-review-prabhas-1235998344/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240702010436/https://deadline.com/2024/07/kalki-2898-ad-review-prabhas-1235998344/ |archive-date=2 July 2024 |access-date=2 July 2024 |website=[[Deadline Hollywood|Deadline]] |language=en-US}}</ref> B. V. S. Prakash of ''[[Deccan Chronicle]]'' gave 3/5 stars and wrote, "Director Nag Ashwin had a reason to cast big guns like Amitabh and Kamal to carry unthinkable roles and it paid off."<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Sci-fi wonder, 3D thrill, Big B, yet Kalki falters on contrived plot |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/kalki-2898-ad-review-rating-901132 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627115705/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/entertainment/tollywood/kalki-2898-ad-review-rating-901132 |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=28 June 2024 |website=Deccan Chronicle |language=en}}</ref> [[Saibal Chatterjee]] of ''[[NDTV]]'' gave 2.5/5 stars and wrote, "It falls back on the sheer sweep of mounting and execution to make up for what lacks in terms of the writing."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalki 2898 AD Review: Prabhas' Film Has Firepower That An Aspiring Futuristic Franchise Needs |work=NDTV |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-review-prabhas-film-has-firepower-that-an-aspiring-futuristic-franchise-needs-2-5-stars-5981738 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627105744/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/kalki-2898-ad-review-prabhas-film-has-firepower-that-an-aspiring-futuristic-franchise-needs-2-5-stars-5981738 |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |language=en}}</ref> Sangeetha Devi Dundoo of ''[[The Hindu]]'' wrote, "Despite these shortcomings, ''Kalki'' is a brave new attempt that deserves big cheers."<ref>{{Cite news |last=Dundoo |first=Sangeetha Devi |date=27 June 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD' movie review: Prabhas and Amitabh Bachchan shine in a visually stunning drama |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kalki-2898-ad-movie-review-prabhas-and-amitabh-bachchan-shine-in-a-visually-stunning-drama/article68339482.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627091417/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kalki-2898-ad-movie-review-prabhas-and-amitabh-bachchan-shine-in-a-visually-stunning-drama/article68339482.ece |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> Neeshita Nyayapathi of ''[[Hindustan Times]]'' wrote, "Nag Ashwin's dystopian film might not be flawless, but it's gutsy and intriguing enough to be watched on-screen."<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 June 2024 |title=Kalki 2898 AD review: Giants Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan overshadow Prabhas, Deepika Padukone in Ashwin's gutsy epic |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-review-giants-amitabh-bachchan-kamal-haasan-overshadow-prabhas-deepika-padukone-in-ashwins-gutsy-epic-101719470022211.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627102028/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/kalki-2898-ad-review-giants-amitabh-bachchan-kamal-haasan-overshadow-prabhas-deepika-padukone-in-ashwins-gutsy-epic-101719470022211.html |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=27 June 2024 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref>

==Awards and nominations==

{| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders"

|+Name of the award ceremony, year presented, award category, nominee(s) of the award, and the result of the nomination
! scope="col" | Award ceremony
! scope="col" | Date of ceremony{{efn|Date is linked to the article about the awards held that year, wherever possible.}}
! scope="col" | Category
! scope="col" | Nominee(s)/work(s)
! scope="col" | Result
! scope="col" class="unsortable" | {{Abbr|Ref.|Reference(s)}}
|-
! scope="row" rowspan="10" | [[South Indian International Movie Awards|SIIMA]]
| style="text-align:center" rowspan="10"| [[13th South Indian International Movie Awards|5 September 2025]]
| [[SIIMA Award for Best Film – Telugu|Best Film - Telugu]]
| style="text-align:center"| [[Vyjayanthi Movies]]
| {{won}}
| rowspan="10"  | {{center|<ref>{{Cite web |title=SIIMA 2025 Winners (Telugu): Allu Arjun, Rashmika Are Best Actors; Kalki 2898 AD Bags Best Film |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/telugu-cinema/siima-2025-winners-telugu-allu-arjun-rashmika-are-best-actors-kalki-2898-ad-bags-best-film-9552659.html |access-date=6 September 2025 |website=News18 |language=en}}</ref><br /><ref>{{Cite web |date=6 September 2025 |title=SIIMA 2025 list of winners: Allu Arjun bags top prize for Pushpa 2; Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan win for Kalki 2898 AD |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/siima-2025-winners-allu-arjun-rashmika-mandanna-pushpa-2-the-rule-amitabh-bachchan-kamal-haasan-kalki-2898-ad-101757128274719.html |access-date=6 September 2025 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}</ref><br /><ref name="SIIMA 2025: Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna Win Big. Full List Of Winners (Telugu, Kannada)">{{cite news |date=6 September 2025 |title=SIIMA 2025: Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna Win Big. Full List Of Winners (Telugu, Kannada) |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/siima-2025-allu-arjun-rashmika-mandanna-win-big-full-list-of-winners-telugu-kannada-9227029 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250906173814/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/siima-2025-allu-arjun-rashmika-mandanna-win-big-full-list-of-winners-telugu-kannada-9227029 |archive-date=6 September 2025 |access-date=6 September 2025 |publisher=NDTV}}</ref>}}
|-
| [[SIIMA Award for Best Supporting Actor – Telugu|Best Supporting Actor (male) - Telugu]]
| style="text-align:center"| [[Amitabh Bachchan]]
| {{won}}
|-
| [[SIIMA Award for Best Supporting Actress – Telugu|Best Supporting Actor (Female) - Telugu]]
| style="text-align:center"| [[Anna Ben]]
| {{won}}
|-
| [[SIIMA Award for Best Actor in a Negative Role - Telugu|Best Negative Role Actor - Telugu]]
| style="text-align:center"| [[Kamal Haasan]]
| {{won}}
|-
| [[SIIMA Award for Best Director - Telugu|Best Director - Telugu]]
| style="text-align:center"| [[Nag Ashwin]]
| {{nom}}
|-
| [[SIIMA Award for Best Cinematographer - Telugu|Best Cinematographer - Telugu]]
| style="text-align:center"|[[Djordje Stojiljkovic]]
| {{nom}}
|-
| [[SIIMA Award for Best Actor – Telugu|Best Actor - Telugu]]
| style="text-align:center"|[[Prabhas]]
| {{nom}}
|-
| [[SIIMA Award for Best Actress – Telugu|Best Actress - Telugu]]
| style="text-align:center"|[[Deepika Padukone]]
| {{nom}}
|-
| [[SIIMA Award for Best Comedian – Telugu|Best Comedian - Telugu]]
| style="text-align:center"|[[Brahmanandam]]
| {{nom}}
|-
| [[SIIMA Award for Best Music Director – Telugu|Best Music Director - Telugu]]
| style="text-align:center"|[[Santhosh Narayanan]]
| {{nom}}
|-
! scope="row" rowspan="4" |[[Telangana Gaddar Film Awards]]
| style="text-align:center" rowspan="4"|[[Telangana Gaddar Film Awards of 2024|14 June 2025]]
|[[Telangana Gaddar Film Award for Best Feature Film|Best Feature Film]]
|style="text-align:center"|[[C. Aswini Dutt]]<br />[[Nag Ashwin]]
|{{won}}
|rowspan="4" | {{center|<ref>{{Cite web|title=Gaddar Telangana Film Awards 2024 full list of winners: Kalki 2898 AD wins best film, Allu Arjun wins best actor|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/gaddar-telangana-film-awards-2024-full-list-of-winners-kalki-2898-ad-wins-best-film-allu-arjun-wins-best-actor-101748511071615.html|website=Hindustan Times|date=29 May 2025|access-date=25 January 2026|language=en}}</ref>}}
|-
|Best Director
|style="text-align:center"| Nag Ashwin
| {{won}}
|-
|Best Art Director
|style="text-align:center"|Adnithin Zihani Choudhary
| {{won}}
|-
|Best Costume Designer
|style="text-align:center"|Archana Rao<br/>Ajay Kumar
|{{won}}
|}

== Future ==
In late May 2024, it was reported that the film would have a [[sequel]]. On 26 June 2024, a day prior to the film's release, Ashwin commented on ''Kalki 2898 AD: Part 2'' and stated that it would begin three years later.<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 June 2024 |title=It's Official! Prabhas's Kalki 2898 AD Part 2 (Sequel) In The Making |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/telugu/prabhass-kalki-2898-ad-part-2-sequel-in-the-making-article-111308472 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627090307/https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/telugu/prabhass-kalki-2898-ad-part-2-sequel-in-the-making-article-111308472 |archive-date=27 June 2024 |access-date=28 June 2024 |website=Times Now |language=en}}</ref> During the mid-credits, it was revealed to be part of a media franchise named Kalki Cinematic Universe which had earlier been teased in ''[[Bujji & Bhairava]]'', an animated series released before the film and serving as its "prelude".<ref>{{Cite news |date=28 June 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD' sequel: The film leaves an opening for part 2! |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/kalki-2898-ad-sequel-the-film-leaves-an-opening-for-part-2/articleshow/111332325.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240628063407/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/kalki-2898-ad-sequel-the-film-leaves-an-opening-for-part-2/articleshow/111332325.cms |archive-date=28 June 2024 |access-date=28 June 2024 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref name="hindustan times-2024" /> 

On 29 June 2024, producer C. Aswani Dutt announced that 60% of the filming for ''Kalki 2898 AD: Part 2'' has been completed, with several major segments still remaining to be shot.<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 June 2024 |title='Kalki 2898 AD' sequel shoot almost complete, says producer Ashwini Dutt |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/kalki-2898-ad-sequel-shoot-almost-complete-says-producer-ashwini-dutt-2560042-2024-06-29 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240709121134/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/kalki-2898-ad-sequel-shoot-almost-complete-says-producer-ashwini-dutt-2560042-2024-06-29 |archive-date=9 July 2024 |access-date=29 June 2024 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Kamal Haasan On His Limited Screen Time In Kalki 2898 AD: "Will Have More To Do In The Second Part" |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/kamal-haasan-on-his-limited-screen-time-in-kalki-2898-ad-will-have-more-to-do-in-the-second-part-5996618 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240629121708/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/kamal-haasan-on-his-limited-screen-time-in-kalki-2898-ad-will-have-more-to-do-in-the-second-part-5996618 |archive-date=29 June 2024 |access-date=29 June 2024 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref> On 18 September 2025, the producers announced that they have officially parted ways with Deepika Padukone on the sequel owing to undisclosed reasons.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalki 2898 AD makers officially removed Deepika Padukone over 'demands of fee increase, five-star accommodation for 25 people': report |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/kalki-2898-ad-makers-officially-removed-deepika-padukone-over-demands-of-fee-increase-five-star-accommodation-for-25-people-report-10257267/lite/ |date=18 September 2025 |website=[[The Indian Express]] |language=en}}</ref> Principal photography for the sequel began in 24 February 2026.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Kalki 2 goes on floors; Kamal Haasan, Amitabh Bachchan reunite |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/kalki-2-kamal-haasan-amitabh-bachchan-prabhas-nag-ashwin/article70670246.ece |work=The Hindu |date=24 February 2026 |access-date=24 February 2026}}</ref>

== See also ==
* {{anl|1000 Crore Club}}
* [[List of science fiction films of the 2020s]]
* [[Science fiction films in India]]

== Notes ==
{{notelist}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
* {{IMDb title}}
* {{Bollywood Hungama movie|kalki-2898-ad}}
{{Nag Ashwin}}

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{{Wikipedia attribution|original_title=Kalki 2898 AD|access_date=2026-03-04}}