The tentatively titled Thalaivar173, headlined by Rajinikanth, is currently in development and is being jointly backed by Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International. Amid reports that director Ashwath Marimuthu could replace Cibi Chakaravarthi, speculation has emerged that the Don filmmaker may once again join hands with Sivakarthikeyan.
Will Cibi Chakaravarthi and Sivakarthikeyan collaborate again after Thalaivar173?
As per industry buzz circulated by Movies Singapore, Ashwath Marimuthu is said to have taken over directing duties for Thalaivar173 from Cibi Chakaravarthi. Sources suggest that the Dragon director is currently engaged in finalizing the script and has requested the producers to hold off on any official announcement until the narration process is fully completed.
Despite the reported change, the production house is believed to be interested in working with Cibi Chakaravarthi on a different venture. Reports indicate that discussions are underway for a project that could reunite the filmmaker with Sivakarthikeyan following the success of Don.
The directorial shift may also affect the film’s release schedule. While Thalaivar173 was initially expected to arrive during Pongal 2027, reports now suggest that the release could be postponed to the summer of the same year. However, no official confirmation regarding the timeline has been issued.
The project was first announced with Sundar C attached as director. He later exited due to prior commitments, paving the way for Cibi Chakaravarthi to come on board. At the time, the film was said to be an action thriller featuring Basil Joseph and Priyanka Arul Mohan in prominent roles.
Subsequently, reports claimed that Cibi stepped away from the project because of his commitments to a Telugu film. Ashwath Marimuthu is now believed to be the frontrunner to helm the venture. Notably, the filmmaker had earlier revealed that he narrated a story to Rajinikanth, who reportedly responded positively to the idea.
Rajinikanth’s upcoming projects
Rajinikanth is currently gearing up for Jailer 2, the sequel to the blockbuster action entertainer. The film is expected to continue the journey of Muthuvel Pandian after the events of the first installment.
The cast reportedly includes Mithun Chakraborty, Vidya Balan, SJ Suryah, and Suraj Venjaramoodu in significant roles. Mohanlal and Shiva Rajkumar are also expected to return as their respective characters. While an official release date has not yet been announced, industry reports suggest that the sequel could arrive in theatres on September 11, 2026.
Apart from Jailer 2, Rajinikanth is also expected to feature in the much-talked-about project tentatively referred to as KHxRK Reunion.
