Superstar Rajinikanth has confirmed the director of his next film, tentatively titled Thalaivar173, with director Cibi Chakravarthi set to helm the project. The announcement has triggered fresh discussion around the film’s possible storyline, though the makers are yet to share official plot details.
The project is being co-produced by Kamal Haasan and R. Mahendran, marking another high-profile collaboration behind the scenes.
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Reports suggest tailor role with a hidden past
As per a Pinkvilla report, Rajinikanth may be seen playing a tailor who lives a quiet family life. The character is said to have a violent past that he has deliberately left behind. When threats resurface and put his family at risk, he is forced to confront his old life.
There has been no confirmation from the production team on this storyline. However, the first announcement poster featured tailoring scissors, precision tools and fake passports, details that have fuelled speculation about a dual-life narrative with action elements.
Director change and development history
The film was initially announced with director Sundar C, who later stepped away due to scheduling conflicts. Following that, multiple filmmakers were reported to have narrated scripts to Rajinikanth, including Ashwath Marimuthu, Nithilan Saminathan, and Ramkumar Balakrishnan.
Cibi Chakravarthi ultimately came on board, making this his second directorial venture after Don. The filmmaker shared a note expressing gratitude and recalling his long-standing admiration for Rajinikanth.
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Rajinikanth’s upcoming releases
Before Thalaivar173 goes on floors, Rajinikanth will be seen in Jailer 2, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. The sequel to the 2023 hit Jailer is expected to release in August 2026.
Actors Mohanlal, Shivarajkumar, Vijay Sethupathi, Vidya Balan and Mithun Chakraborty are expected to appear. Mithun Chakraborty recently claimed that Shah Rukh Khan may also feature, though there has been no official confirmation.
