Tamil cinema’s most talked-about project just got a major behind-the-scenes twist. Rajinikanth’s upcoming film Thalaivar173 is reportedly set to see a director change — and the ripple effect could mean a highly anticipated reunion for Sivakarthikeyan fans.
Let’s break it all down, clearly and quickly.
Table of Contents
Thalaivar173: What’s Happening ?
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Film | Thalaivar173 (working title) |
| Lead Actor | Rajinikanth |
| Original Director | Sundar C (exited) → Cibi Chakaravarthi (likely exiting) |
| Expected New Director | Ashwath Marimuthu (Dragon fame) |
| Producer | Kamal Haasan / Raaj Kamal Films International |
| Key Cast | Basil Joseph, Priyanka Arul Mohan |
| Original Release Target | Pongal 2027 (now likely delayed to summer) |
The Director Domino Effect
It reads almost like a relay race. Thalaivar173 was first announced with Sundar C at the helm, but he stepped away due to prior commitments. Cibi Chakaravarthi was then brought on board, and things seemed settled — until his involvement in a Telugu project reportedly pulled him away too.
Now, according to online buzz, Dragon director Ashwath Marimuthu is set to step in. Interestingly, Marimuthu had already narrated a story to Rajinikanth — one of Tamil cinema’s most enduring superstars with a career spanning over five decades — and the superstar reportedly liked what he heard. However, the director has reportedly requested that no official announcement be made until final script discussions are completed.
The Silver Lining: A Cibi–Sivakarthikeyan Reunion?
Here’s the part that has fans buzzing. With the producers still very keen on working with Cibi Chakaravarthi, reports suggest they are looking to pair him with Sivakarthikeyan once again. The duo previously delivered the blockbuster Don (2022), so a second collaboration would naturally be one of the most-watched announcements in Tamil cinema.
No official word yet — but the momentum is undeniable.
Stay updated with all the latest Tamil cinema and South film news on TechnoSports, and don’t miss our coverage of Rajinikanth’s upcoming projects including Jailer 2.
What’s Next for Rajinikanth?
Beyond Thalaivar173, the superstar’s plate is full. Jailer 2 — the highly anticipated sequel featuring Mithun Chakraborty, Vidya Balan, SJ Suryah, Mohanlal, and Shiva Rajkumar — is reportedly eyeing a September 11, 2026 release. He also has the KHxRK Reunion project lined up alongside Kamal Haasan.
FAQs
Q: Who is the new director of Thalaivar173?
Ashwath Marimuthu of Dragon fame is reportedly set to replace Cibi Chakaravarthi, though no official announcement has been made yet.
Q: Will Thalaivar173 release on Pongal 2027 as originally planned?
Due to the director change, the Pongal 2027 release is likely to be pushed to a summer 2027 slot, per current reports.
