Superstar Rajinikanth’s ‘Thalaivar 173,’ directed by Cibi Chakaravarthi and backed by Kamal Haasan’s RKFI, is set for a promo shoot in Chennai starting April 27, 2026. Regular filming follows in May, promising an action-packed entertainer with emotional depth. The film is slated for a 2027 Pongal release, with Shobana and Basil Joseph reportedly in key roles.
Superstar Rajinikanth is gearing up for his next film, tentatively titled ‘Thalaivar 173,’ directed by Cibi Chakaravarthi. The upcoming project has already created strong excitement among fans, as it marks a fresh collaboration for the veteran actor.The makers are planning to begin the project with a special promotional shoot. The promo is expected to be filmed in Chennai for about three days before the main shooting schedule begins. This promo shoot will reportedly serve as the official launch of the film and give audiences the first glimpse of Rajinikanth’s look and style for the project.
‘Thalaivar 173’ regular filming is expected to begin later
A report from Valai Pechu suggests that Rajinikanth will start working on ‘Thalaivar 173’ from April 27, 2026.
After the initial promo shoot, the production team is expected to move directly into the regular shooting schedule later in May. While the makers have not revealed many details about the story yet, the film is said to be an action entertainer with strong emotional elements. The project is being planned as a grand theatrical experience for fans.If the production goes as scheduled, the film is likely to release in theatres during the 2027 Pongal, making it one of the biggest releases of that festive season.
Kamal Haasan ’s RKFI backs the project with a strong cast lineup
The film is being co-produced by Kamal Haasan under his banner Raaj Kamal Films International. Sundar C was the one who was originally supposed to take charge of the project, but later on, he backed out because of his other obligations. Subsequently, Cibi Chakaravarthi was brought in to direct the movie. The director is famous for his masala narrative, which most people think will ease the acting of Rajinikanth. The cast is also expected to include Shobana, Basil Joseph, and Priyanka Mohan in key roles, though the makers have yet to confirm more details about their characters.
Rajinikanth’s packed lineup keeps fans excited
In addition to ‘Thalaivar 173,’ Rajinikanth has many other fascinating projects to work on. He will come back as Tiger Muthuvel Pandian in Nelson Dilipkumar’s sequel movie Jailer 2. The sequel might also have actors
Mohanlal
and Shiva Rajkumar reprising their important roles. There are reports that the film will also feature actors Mithun Chakraborty, Vidya Balan, and S. J. Suryah.In the future, fans can also anticipate a collaboration between Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan for a project known as ‘KHxRK.’ With such a full slate of upcoming films, the superstar doesn’t seem to be done keeping audiences on their toes or excited for his theatrical releases.
