Rajinikanth's upcoming film Thalaivar 173, backed by Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International, had hit a roadblock after the exit of its initially announced director, Sundar C. Now, the veteran actor announced that the film will be directed by Cibi Chakaravarthi.
Announcing the news on X (formerly Twitter), the makers wrote, "Every HERO has a FAMILY. #Arambikalama #Thalaivar173 #SuperStarPongal2027 "
Every HERO has a FAMILY#Arambikalama #Thalaivar173 #SuperStarPongal2027 @rajinikanth @ikamalhaasan @Dir_Cibi @anirudhofficial #Mahendran @APIfilms @homescreenent@RKFI @turmericmediaTM @magizhmandram pic.twitter.com/IkVVMgi3q8
— Raaj Kamal Films International (@RKFI) January 3, 2026
Background
The project has been one of the most anticipated collaborations, especially with Kamal Haasan producing a Rajinikanth film after decades.
Sundar C had initially been announced as the director, but days later, he stepped away from the film, stating that "unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances" had forced him to withdraw.
When asked about the development, Kamal Haasan told reporters, "Sundar C has explained the reason for his withdrawal from the project through a press release. I don't have anything to add to it."
He added that as the producer, it is his responsibility to ensure the script aligns with the expectations of the film's star. "Until my star is satisfied with the script, we will keep scouting for it. We are currently in the process of finalising a quality script," he said.
Kamal Haasan also hinted that a young filmmaker could be brought on board and described the team's creative direction by saying, "expect the unexpected."
In his press release, Sundar wrote, "In life, there are moments when we must follow the path laid out for us, even if it diverges from our dreams. My association with these two icons (Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan) goes back a long way. I will always hold them in the highest regard."
Thalaivar 173 will reunite Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth on a film project after 46 years. Kamal Haasan officially confirmed the film during the NEXA SIIMA Awards 2025.
Sundar C previously directed Rajinikanth in Arunachalam (1997) and Kamal Haasan in Anbe Sivam (2003).
Also Read: Kamal Haasan On Sundar C's Sudden Exit From Thalaivar 173: "Don't Have Anything To Add"
