Mumbai/IBNS: Amid murmurs over Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone's "commitment" related to her exit from Kalki 2898 AD sequel, her 'Cocktail' co-star Diana Penty heaped praises on the 'Pathaan' actress on professionalism.

In a recent interview at NDTV Yuva Conclave session, Diana said Deepika scores 10 on 10 when it comes to professionalism.

In all praise for Deepika, Diana said, "She was honestly the best co-actor to have in my first film. Deepika and Saif were both my pillars of support through the times when I knew nothing. I mean, I was literally on a film set for the first time in my life, doing my first few scenes, my first few dialogue deliveries.

"Everything was so surreal, so new for me, but the two of them made sure that they supported me throughout. They made me feel completely comfortable, made light of everything. If I forgot my lines and we had to redo the scene, they made me feel like it was no big deal. So I really, really appreciate that."

When asked about the 'Padmaavat' star's professionalism, Diana told the broadcaster, "Extremely professional. 10. Yeah, 10. She is very, very disciplined. And I think that also comes from her upbringing and her background, being a sports player as well. She is disciplined."

Deepika's Kalki exit

The production house Vyjayanthi Movies on Thursday dropped a cryptic remark on "commitment" while announcing Deepika's exit from the film.

In an X post, the makers said, "This is to officially announce that @deepikapadukone will not be a part of the upcoming sequel of #Kalki2898AD.

"After careful consideration, We have decided to part ways. Despite the long journey of making the first film, we were unable to find a partnership. And a film like @Kalki2898AD deserves that commitment and much more. We wish her the best with her future works."

Apart from Deepika, Kalki 2898 AD featured legend Amitabh Bachchan, superstar Prabhas, veteran actor Kamal Haasan in the lead.

A 2024 Indian epic science-fiction film, Kalki 2898 AD was directed by Nag Ashwin. It is one of the most expensive films ever made in Indian cinema. 

Released on June 27, 2024, the film blends futuristic dystopian themes with mythology. It revolves around the concept of Kalki, the 10th avatar of Lord Vishnu, prophesied to appear at the end of Kali Yuga to restore dharma.

Deepika played the role of Sumathi, a pregnant woman who becomes central to the prophecy about the birth of a savior who will change the world.

Her unborn child is believed to be Kalki, the 10th avatar of Lord Vishnu.

Earlier, Deepika's exit from Sandeep Reddy Vanga's upcoming film Spirit had triggered massive controversy.

Vanga replaced Deepika with new Bollywood heartthrob Triptii Dimri at a cheaper remuneration.

Deepika reportedly walked out of the film after her condition for eight-hour shift was not accepted.

Deepika starts shooting for SRK starrer King

Deepika waded off all the discussions over her shock exit from Kalki 2898 AD announcing the beginning of her shoot for Siddharth Anand's King on Saturday.

King features Shah Rukh Khan with whom Deepika will share screen-space for the sixth time.

Confirming it, Deepika shared a picture where she is seen holding SRK's hand.

Deepika wrote a meaningful note for her 59-year-old co-actor with whom she started her Bollywood journey way back in 2007.

The 39-year-old wrote, "The very first lesson he taught me almost 18 years ago while filming Om Shanti Om was that the experience of making a movie, and the people you make it with, matter far more than its success.

"I couldn’t agree more and have applied that learning to every decision I’ve made since. And that’s probably why we’re back making our 6th movie together?"

The previous five collaborations were Om Shanti Om, Chennai Express, Happy New Year, Pathaan and Jawan.