Vicky Kaushal’s ‘Mahavatar’ is once again in the limelight, with Deepika Padukone reportedly approached as the female lead. While talks are at an early stage, she’s considered ideal for the role. Meanwhile, Vicky balances Amar Kaushik’s mythological epic with Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Love & War’, set for release in 2026.

Vicky Kaushal’s much-talked-about project ‘Mahavatar’ is back in the spotlight. Now, as per a new report, Deepika Padukone has been approached to play the leading lady, and the talks are moving in a positive direction. If the collaboration materializes, it will mark their first duo, a pairing that has already generated a buzz among the audience.

Why does Deepika Padukone fit the role?

According to Mid-day, the team has been looking for someone who can bring gravitas and emotional depth to the role written opposite Parashurama. Deepika fits that space perfectly. Conversations have begun, but they are still at an early stage. She is among the top names the studio has engaged with. Mahavatar’s female lead has a strong character graph. Amar Kaushik has been clear from the beginning that the character must have equal footing in the narrative.

Vicky Kaushal’s spiritual preparation for the role

Recently it was reported that Vicky Kaushal would be making some major lifestyle changes in preparation for ‘Mahavatar’. Reports suggested that the actor plans to give up alcohol and non-vegetarian food ahead of the film’s shoot. But Amar Kaushik had debunked the rumors in his interview with Filmygyan.

The first look that took the internet by storm

Back in 2024, Vicky introduced fans to the first look of ‘Mahavatar’, and it took social media by storm within hours. Along with the poster, the actor wrote, “Dinesh Vijan brings to life the story of the eternal warrior of dharma! Vicky Kaushal stars as Chiranjeevi Parashurama in #Mahavatar, directed by Amar Kaushik. Coming to cinemas – Christmas 2026!” The project is backed by Dinesh Vijan and directed by Amar Kaushik, the creative force behind ‘Stree 2’.

Balancing ‘Mahavatar’ with ‘Love & War’

Earlier exclusive reports from ETimes revealed that Vicky has blocked nearly 200 days in his schedule for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s grand venture ‘Love & War’. The film hit the floors towards the end of 2024 and will continue shooting through the third quarter of 2025. Also featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, the project is set for a theatrical release in March 2026. Vicky had once mentioned that putting on weight during ‘Chhaava’ wasn’t easy for him, he had reached 105 kgs for Laxman Utekar’s film but later had to shed all those extra kilos to fit into his role for ‘Love & War’.