After weeks of industry speculation and changes in the project’s creative team, filmmaker Cibi Chakravarthi, known for directing the 2022 hit Don, has officially been announced as the director of Thalaivar 173. The announcement comes after the previous director, Sundar C, exited the project due to unforeseen circumstances. The film is a rare and major collaboration between two Tamil cinema legends: Superstar Rajinikanth in the lead role and Kamal Haasan as producer under his banner Raaj Kamal Films International. This pairing has generated exceptional buzz, as it reunites two icons who have not worked together in many years. Makers have confirmed that Thalaivar 173 is being targeted for a Pongal 2027 theatrical release, aligning with one of the biggest festive seasons in the Tamil film calendar.
The official announcement on social media used the tagline “Every HERO has a FAMILY,” hinting that the film may balance high-impact action with emotional and family themes. Cibi Chakravarthi shared a heartfelt reflection on landing the opportunity, calling it the fulfilment of a long-held dream to work with his cinematic idol, Rajinikanth.
The project is expected to reunite Rajinikanth with composer Anirudh Ravichander, continuing a collaboration that has been well-received by audiences.
This development has fuelled fans’ excitement after earlier uncertainty around the project’s direction following Sundar C’s departure. With a confirmed director and a major festival release date, Thalaivar 173 is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about Tamil films in 2026–27.
