Rajinikanth’s Team Dismisses Dharman Set Rift Rumours: “He Is Happy Working With Director Ashwath Marimuthu”

A film that has already changed directors twice is bound to attract gossip. This week, the chatter around Dharman got louder, with talk of a rift between superstar Rajinikanth and…

By Reetam Bodhak

October 8, 2026

2 min read

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A film that has already changed directors twice is bound to attract gossip. This week, the chatter around Dharman got louder, with talk of a rift between superstar Rajinikanth and director Ashwath Marimuthu. His team has now stepped in to shut it down.

What Sparked the Rumour?

Dharman was earlier known as Thalaivar173. It went through two director changes before Ashwath Marimuthu was announced in June. Per a Times of India report, a since-deleted post on X claimed that disagreements had created an uneasy mood on set.

What Rajinikanth’s Team Said?

A member of the actor’s PR team responded in Tamil, calling the claim completely wrong. They said they had personally been on set over many days of shooting and saw Rajinikanth happy and comfortable working with the director, whom they praised for his dynamic working style. They added that the film is moving ahead quickly and smoothly.

Dharman : Overview

Detail	Info
Film	Dharman (earlier Thalaivar173)
Lead actor	Rajinikanth
Director	Ashwath Marimuthu
Co-stars	Simran, Raashii Khanna, Yogi Babu
Release	January 2027
First look	Rajinikanth in blue scrubs, holding a scalpel
Status	Shooting in progress

That first look has already got fans guessing about the story. A medical setting is a fresh look for the star, and the intrigue has only grown with the rumour mill.

Jailer 2 Arrives First

Before Dharman, fans get a bigger treat. Jailer 2, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, releases on 15 October. Ramya Krishnan, Yogi Babu and Mirnaa return, while Shiva Rajkumar, Mohanlal, Hrithik Roshan and Jackie Shroff are set for cameos. Vidya Balan, SJ Suryah and Mithun Chakraborty are also in the cast.

So Rajinikanth fans have two big releases lined up within a few months.

Set rumours often spread faster than facts, especially around a film with a rocky start. For now, the only official word is that the star is happy and the shoot is on track. Treat unverified posts, especially deleted ones, with caution until there is a confirmed update.

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FAQs

Q1. Is there a rift between Rajinikanth and Ashwath Marimuthu?
No. Rajinikanth’s team has called the reports incorrect and says he is comfortable working on Dharman.

Q2. When will Dharman release?
Dharman is slated for January 2027, with Simran, Raashii Khanna and Yogi Babu in key roles.