Could the Superstar of Indian cinema be trading his signature shades and action-hero swagger for a stethoscope? The buzz around Thalaivar173 just got a whole lot more interesting, and Rajinikanth fans have every reason to sit up and pay attention.
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The Big Revelation — Rajinikanth as a Doctor?
According to reports, Thalaivar173 is expected to feature Rajinikanth as a doctor. A photo shoot recently took place in Chennai at the RKFI office, where Rajinikanth is said to have appeared in a doctor’s attire, complete with a stethoscope.
This would be genuinely historic territory for Thalaivar. While he previously portrayed a psychologist in Chandramukhi, he has never played a full-fledged medical practitioner on screen. A first for one of cinema’s biggest icons — that’s a big deal.
As per reports, the story may be inspired by real-life doctors, such as the popular “Rs 5 doctor,” known for providing affordable healthcare services. If true, this could be Rajinikanth’s most grounded, socially rooted role in years.

Thalaivar173 — All Key Details
| Detail | Update |
|---|---|
| Star | Rajinikanth |
| Director | Ashwath Marimuthu (Dragon fame) |
| Role | Doctor (reportedly) |
| Shoot Start | June 26, 2026 (Sundar Studios, Poonamallee) |
| Previous Directors | Sundar C, then Cibi Chakaravarthi (both exited) |
| Target Release | Summer 2027 (revised from Pongal 2027) |
The Director Saga — How Ashwath Marimuthu Came On Board
This project has had quite the journey behind the camera. Thalaivar173 was initially announced with director Sundar C at the helm, who later exited the project due to prior commitments. Director Cibi Chakaravarthi then stepped in, but his involvement in a Telugu project reportedly led him to step away as well.
Enter Dragon fame Ashwath Marimuthu, whose fresh perspective seems to have resonated most with the superstar. Earlier, Ashwath had revealed that he narrated a story to Rajinikanth, who reportedly liked it. The film is speculated to go on floors from June 26, 2026, at Sundar Studios in Poonamallee, where sets are reportedly being constructed.
What About Jailer 2?
Before Thalaivar173 rolls, Rajinikanth fans have another treat coming. Rajinikanth will next be seen in Jailer 2, which stars Mithun Chakraborty, Vidya Balan, SJ Suryah, and Suraj Venjaramoodu in key roles, with Mohanlal and Shiva Rajkumar expected to reprise their roles. Reports suggest the film could release on September 11, 2026.
As one of the most celebrated figures in the history of Indian cinema, Rajinikanth playing a compassionate doctor inspired by real-world heroes would be a refreshing and emotionally powerful pivot — and that’s exactly what makes Thalaivar173 one of the most anticipated Tamil films of 2027.
For the latest updates on Rajinikanth and South Indian cinema, stay tuned at Technosports.
FAQs
Q: What role will Rajinikanth play in Thalaivar173?
Reports suggest Rajinikanth will play a doctor in Thalaivar173, reportedly inspired by real-life figures like the famous “Rs 5 doctor” known for affordable healthcare — a first for the superstar in his entire career.
Q: Who is directing Thalaivar173 and when does it release?
Dragon director Ashwath Marimuthu is expected to helm the film, with shooting reportedly beginning June 26, 2026, and a summer 2027 release being targeted.





