Rajinikanth's film to undergo another change: Is it Ashwath Marimuthu over Cibi?
Rajinikanth's highly awaited film Thalaivar 173 is facing uncertainty as director Cibi Chakravarthi has reportedly exited the project. Fans and industry insiders await official confirmation and updates on the film's future direction.
Word has it that the director of Rajinikanth's Thalaivar 173 has been changed from Cibi Chakravarthi (R) to Ashwath Marimuthu (C).
Chennai,UPDATED: Apr 13, 2026 11:48 IST
Superstar Rajinikanth’s much-anticipated film, Thalaivar 173, is reportedly undergoing another change in its directorial team. Recent rumours suggest that Cibi Chakravarthi, who was previously confirmed as the director, has exited the project. This marks the second time the film has faced a director change since its announcement.
The film is being produced by Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International. Initially, Sundar C was announced as the director but stepped down shortly after, despite the excitement surrounding the collaboration. Kamal Haasan later confirmed Sundar C’s departure and announced that Cibi Chakravarthi, known for Sivakarthikeyan's Don, would take over the directorial duties.
Pre-production work for Thalaivar 173 was reportedly progressing, with plans to start shooting by late April. The team had been preparing to move forward under Cibi Chakravarthi’s direction.
However, industry sources now indicate that Cibi Chakravarthi has also left the project. Ashwath Marimuthu, who directed Dragon, is said to be in talks to direct the film. As of now, the production house has not officially confirmed either Cibi Chakravarthi’s exit or Ashwath Marimuthu’s involvement.
Fans of the Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan collaboration are concerned about the repeated changes and delays affecting the film. The lack of official updates has added to the uncertainty surrounding the project.
Here are some reactions:
Despite the setbacks, the film continues to generate significant interest given Rajinikanth’s star power and the involvement of Kamal Haasan’s production house. Observers await further announcements from the makers to clarify the situation.
Thalaivar 173 remains one of the most anticipated Tamil films, and the production team’s next steps will be closely watched by fans and the industry alike. For now, the film’s future director and the timeline for shooting remain uncertain, pending official statements from Raaj Kamal Films International.
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