Thalaivar 173 Is Already on Its Third Director — And Rajinikanth’s Film Hasn’t Even Started Shooting Yet

If you've been following the Thalaivar 173 saga, you already know this project has had more directorial drama than most films have actual storylines. And now, it looks like another…

By Reetam Bodhak

April 14, 2026

3 min read

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If you’ve been following the Thalaivar 173 saga, you already know this project has had more directorial drama than most films have actual storylines. And now, it looks like another change might be coming — before a single frame has been filmed.

According to reports from Valai Pechu, director Cibi Chakaravarthi (Don) is likely to be removed from the project. The reason? A dispute with a Telugu production house over a film starring Nani that Cibi had walked out of, citing creative differences. That production house allegedly spent heavily on pre-production and is now demanding repayment — and reportedly even asked for a partnership stake in Thalaivar 173. Producers RKFI turned that down flat.

With the matter seemingly unresolved, the makers are said to be considering bringing in Ashwath Marimuthu (Dragon) as the replacement. Ashwath himself had earlier confirmed that he narrated a story to Rajinikanth, which the superstar approved. If this happens, Thalaivar 173 will take priority, after which Ashwath is expected to proceed with his planned project involving STR.

There’s reportedly one more creative disagreement in the mix too — the makers are said to have wanted the film to carry a more serious tone, while Cibi was inclined toward a lighter approach. That creative mismatch may have accelerated the decision.

No official confirmation has been issued by RKFI or any of the parties involved.

Thalaivar 173 — Director Timeline So Far

Director	Status	Reason for Change
Sundar C	Opted out	Prior commitments (Sangamithra)
Cibi Chakaravarthi	Likely to be replaced	Dispute with Telugu production house; creative differences over film’s tone
Ashwath Marimuthu	Frontrunner replacement	Story narrated to & liked by Rajinikanth

What’s Next for Rajinikanth?

The Superstar — one of the most iconic figures in Indian cinema — isn’t sitting idle while Thalaivar 173 sorts itself out. Here’s what’s on his plate:

Jailer 2 — Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, this sequel to the blockbuster original is currently in its finishing stages. Mohanlal, Shiva Rajkumar, Vidya Balan, Mithun Chakraborty, and Suraj Venjaramoodu are all on board. Shah Rukh Khan was initially linked to a cameo but stepped away due to scheduling commitments with King.

KHxRK Reunion — Rajinikanth’s much-anticipated collaboration with Kamal Haasan is expected to begin filming in August 2026, with a tentative Diwali 2027 release window being targeted.

For more South Indian film updates and Rajinikanth news, visit TechnoSports.

FAQs

Q: Why is Cibi Chakaravarthi likely being replaced as Thalaivar 173 director?

Reports suggest an unresolved financial dispute with a Telugu production house and a creative difference over the film’s tone are the key reasons behind his likely exit.