Thalaivar173 titled Dharman: Rajinikanth set to play a stylish doctor; Ashwath Marimuthu confirmed as director

Rajinikanth is next set to star in a lead role for the movie Dharman, with Dragon fame Ashwath Marimuthu helming it and Kamal Haasan co-producing it.

Updated on Jun 24, 2026  |  01:31 PM IST |  886K
(PC: RKFI)
(PC: RKFI)

Superstar Rajinikanth and Dragon director Ashwath Marimuthu are all set to join hands for their upcoming film, Dharman. Previously referred to as Thalaivar173, the makers have now unveiled the first-look poster, which features the Jailer actor as a doctor.

Rajinikanth’s Thalaivar173 is titled Dharman

Taking to social media, the makers wrote, “Dharmame Vellum,” which translates to “Justice Will Prevail.” The first-look poster features Rajinikanth holding a scalpel while dressed in scrubs. The title reveal also carries the tagline, “The Deadly Doctor.”

See it here:


Apart from the superstar, the film will feature Simran Bagga, Yogi Babu, and Raashii Khanna in key roles. Anirudh Ravichander is handling the music and background score, while Niketh Bommireddy serves as the cinematographer. Pradeep E. Ragav is in charge of editing, and the Anbariv duo has come on board as the action choreographers.

Speaking at the launch event, director Ashwath Marimuthu expressed his gratitude to Silambarasan TR and AGS Entertainment for allowing him to work on Dharman before STR51.

The filmmaker also refuted rumors surrounding the film’s plot. He said, “Dharman is not about the Rs 5 doctor. This is about a swaggy and deadly doctor called Dharman. It'll be a very entertaining, family-oriented thriller. I love Rajini sir's Padayappa, and I love Kamal sir's Vettaiyaadu Vilayaadu. This film will be a mixture of both. Doctor Swag Dharman will set the screens on fire very soon. We are starting the shoot tomorrow.”

Additionally, Ashwath revealed that this would mark his first collaboration with Anirudh Ravichander. He also shared that the film will feature eight songs and that Rajinikanth’s portions will begin with the filming of the introductory track.

Prior to Ashwath, directors Sundar C and Cibi Chakravarthi had been announced as the film’s directors. However, they later opted out of the project.

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.

Apart from Dharman, the superstar also has the tentatively titled KHxRK Reunion in the pipeline, which is expected to reunite him with Kamal Haasan.

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Credits: X (RKFI)

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