In a surprising turn of events, Dragon director Ashwath Marimuthu has clarified his next directorial venture. Contrary to circulating rumors about helming Rajinikanth’s Thalaivar173, the filmmaker has confirmed he’s moving forward with Silambarasan TR’s STR51—and fans couldn’t be more excited about this fantasy romantic entertainer.
Table of Contents
Simbu Big Clarification
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Director | Ashwath Marimuthu |
| Confirmed Project | STR51 (Simbu starrer) |
| Genre | Fantasy Action Romance |
| Character | God of Love |
| Current Status | Screenplay writing phase |
| Shoot Start | 2026 (parallel to Arasan) |
| Rumored Project | Thalaivar173 (Rajinikanth) – Not confirmed |
Setting the Record Straight
During a recent roundtable discussion with critic Sudhir Srinivasan, Ashwath Marimuthu put all speculation to rest. “No matter who asks, the answer right now is the same: Simbu,” the director stated decisively. He revealed he’s currently penning the screenplay for what promises to be a throwback to vintage Simbu films.
The director outlined a strategic production timeline: while Simbu wraps up Vetrimaaran’s Arasan, Ashwath will finalize his script. Once Simbu’s gangster drama nears completion, both projects will run parallel, with STR51 targeting a 2026 release.
Related: Simbu Upcoming Movies 2026 on Technosports
What About Rajinikanth’s Thalaivar173?
The confusion stemmed from earlier reports suggesting Ashwath was in talks for Rajinikanth’s next project, tentatively titled Thalaivar173. Originally, director Sundar C was attached to the film but withdrew due to prior commitments.
Current speculation indicates that Parking fame Ramkumar Balakrishnan might step in to direct the Rajinikanth starrer instead. An official announcement is expected during the Pongal festival in January 2026. Interestingly, Ramkumar was also once linked to a Simbu project—talk about musical chairs in Tamil cinema!
More Updates: Latest Tamil Cinema News on Technosports
The God of Love Returns
STR51 is being touted as a fantasy action romantic entertainer that harks back to Simbu’s beloved earlier films. Ashwath Marimuthu emphasized that the actor’s character will be titled “God of Love”—a fitting persona for someone known for his romantic on-screen presence and musical talents.
This promises to be a departure from Simbu’s current gritty gangster avatar in Arasan, which is set in Vetrimaaran’s acclaimed Vada Chennai universe. The fantasy element combined with Simbu’s natural flair for romance could create box office magic if executed well.
For more information about director Ashwath Marimuthu’s filmography, check out his IMDb profile.
Simbu’s Packed Schedule
Silambarasan TR is currently deep in production for Arasan, a spin-off featuring characters from Vetrimaaran’s Vada Chennai. The film marks the first collaboration between the acclaimed director and the multifaceted actor, with music composed by Anirudh Ravichander.
Vijay Sethupathi has also joined the project’s ensemble cast, adding another layer of excitement for fans. Once this gangster drama wraps, Simbu will immediately transition into Ashwath Marimuthu’s fantasy romance, showcasing his versatility across contrasting genres.
FAQs
Q: Is Ashwath Marimuthu directing Rajinikanth’s Thalaivar173?
No, Ashwath Marimuthu has confirmed his next film is STR51 with Simbu. Reports suggest Ramkumar Balakrishnan might direct Rajinikanth’s Thalaivar173 instead.
Q: When will STR51 begin filming and release?
STR51 will begin shooting in 2026 alongside Simbu’s Arasan schedule, with a planned release later that year once the fantasy romantic entertainer completes production.
