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Rajinikanth reveals his 173rd movie had 4 different directors; Shares details about initial Cibi Chakaravarthi film
Rajinikanth has officially announced his new movie Dharman, previously titled Thalaivar173 and directed by Ashwath Marimuthu.
Rajinikanth and director Ashwath Marimuthu are set to collaborate on the action thriller Dharman. At the film’s launch event, the superstar revealed that his 173rd film went through multiple director changes before Ashwath came on board. He also spoke about the version of the project that was initially planned with Cibi Chakravarthi.
Rajinikanth reveals the previous director changes for Thalaivar173
Speaking at the Dharman launch event, Rajinikanth said, “Ashwath is the fourth director for this film. We had first finalized KS Ravikumar. However, it didn’t work out. Then Sundar C came on board, but he had another commitment. When he stepped away from the project, it got delayed.”
The superstar added that Cibi Chakravarthi later joined the project and developed a different story. He said, “Later, Cibi came in. The story was good, but it dealt with a complex subject. It was about a nuclear scientist and nuclear technology. The shoot was planned in Afghanistan and Russia. It was a good subject, but it required extensive planning and time. So we decided to keep that project for later. That’s when Ashwath Marimuthu came into the film.”
Thalaivar173 has now been officially titled Dharman. The film is expected to feature Rajinikanth as a doctor and is being described as a family entertainer with thriller elements. Apart from Rajinikanth, the Ashwath Marimuthu directorial stars Simran Bagga, Raashii Khanna, and Yogi Babu in pivotal roles, while Anirudh Ravichander is composing the music.
Rajinikanth’s work front
Rajinikanth is next set to hit the big screens with Jailer 2. Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, the action drama is expected to feature Mithun Chakraborty, Vidya Balan, SJ Suryah, Suraj Venjaramoodu, and others in key roles.
With Mohanlal and Shiva Rajkumar reprising their cameo appearances from the first film, Jailer 2 is also rumored to feature a special appearance by Hrithik Roshan. However, no official confirmation has been made so far.
The film was initially expected to be released in September 2026. However, recent reports suggest that its release may be shifted to the Diwali season. An official announcement is still awaited.
Apart from Dharman, the superstar also has the tentatively titled KHxRK Reunion in the pipeline, which is expected to reunite him with Kamal Haasan.
ALSO READ: Sardar 2 Release Date: Karthi, SJ Suryah’s spy action drama to hit big screens on September 10, 2026
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