# Thalaivar173 Cast Leak: Is Basil Joseph Playing Rajinikanth’s Son? Here’s Everything We Know

URL: https://technosports.co.in/thalaivar173-cast-leak-is-basil-joseph/  
Published: 2026-02-25  
Updated: 2026-02-25  
Author: Reetam Bodhak

If you’re a Rajinikanth fan — and honestly, who isn’t — then the buzz around **Thalaivar173** just got a whole lot more interesting. Reports are swirling that Malayalam star **Basil Joseph** is in talks to play **Rajinikanth’s son** in the upcoming film directed by **Cibi Chakaravarthi**. And the more you think about it, the more it just makes sense.

No official confirmation yet — but in Kollywood, where news travels faster than a Superstar punchline, this one’s hard to ignore.

## What We Know So Far About Thalaivar173

The project, co-produced by **Kamal Haasan** under his banner **Raaj Kamal Films International**, has had quite a journey before even going on floors. Originally planned with director Sundar C, the project pivoted to Cibi Chakaravarthi after Sundar C stepped back due to prior commitments. Rajinikanth himself has described it as a **“proper entertainer”** — and that alone is enough to set pulses racing.

Shooting is expected to begin in **April 2026**, targeting a **Pongal 2027** release. Priyanka Arul Mohan — who previously worked with Cibi in *Don* — is also reportedly being considered for an important role.

![Thalaivar173](https://technosports.co.in/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/image-1807.png)

## Thalaivar173 — Key Details

| Detail | Info |
| --- | --- |
| Lead Actor | Rajinikanth |
| Director | Cibi Chakaravarthi |
| Producer | Kamal Haasan (RKFI) |
| Rumoured Cast | Basil Joseph, Priyanka Arul Mohan |
| Basil Joseph’s Role | Reportedly Rajinikanth’s son |
| Shoot Start | April 2026 (expected) |
| Target Release | Pongal 2027 |
| Previous Director | Sundar C (stepped back) |

## Why Basil Joseph Is a Brilliant Choice

The *Ponman* and *Minnal Murali* actor has steadily built a reputation as one of [Malayalam cinema’s](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malayalam_cinema) most versatile performers. Bringing that energy into a Tamil big-budget production — and opposite the Superstar himself — would be a massive cross-industry moment. It would also signal that Thalaivar173 is gunning for a pan-India appeal from the ground up.

For the latest Rajinikanth film updates, cast announcements, and everything South Indian cinema, stay connected with [TechnoSports Entertainment](https://technosports.co.in). You can also read more about [upcoming Tamil and Malayalam blockbusters on TechnoSports](https://technosports.co.in).

## What’s Rajinikanth Up To Otherwise?

Before Thalaivar173 rolls, the superstar has a packed lineup. **Jailer 2**, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar and featuring Vidya Balan, Mithun Chakraborty, SJ Suryah, and a rumoured **Shah Rukh Khan cameo** (reportedly to be shot in March 2026), is expected mid-2026. He’s also set for the highly anticipated **KHxRK Reunion** with Kamal Haasan, also directed by Nelson.

Basil Joseph, meanwhile, will next be seen in **Athiradi** with Tovino Thomas and Vineeth Sreenivasan, releasing **May 14, 2026**.

## FAQs

### **Q: Is Basil Joseph officially confirmed for Thalaivar173?**

 No official confirmation has been made yet — the reports remain unverified buzz, though industry sources suggest he is being seriously considered for the role.

### **Q: When will Thalaivar173 go on floors and when is the expected release?**

The film is expected to begin shooting in April 2026 and is currently targeting a Pongal 2027 theatrical release.