- Rajinikanth’s new film is titled Dharman.
- The first-look poster introduces him as “The Deadly Doctor.”
- Ashwath Marimuthu has replaced Cibi Chakaravarthi as director.
- The film is produced by Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International.
- Simran, Raashi Khanna, and Yogi Babu star in key roles.
The makers of Rajinikanth’s much-awaited film officially unveiled its title as Dharman during a launch event in Chennai on Wednesday (24). The announcement also confirmed that director Ashwath Marimuthu has taken over the project, replacing Cibi Chakaravarthi.
The film is being produced under Kamal Haasan’s banner, Raaj Kamal Films International. Along with the title announcement, the makers released a first-look poster that offers a glimpse of Rajinikanth’s character.
The poster features the superstar as a surgeon with a dangerous side. The tagline, “The Deadly Doctor,” appears prominently on the poster, hinting at an intense and action-packed role. While details about the story remain under wraps, the first look has already generated excitement among fans.
The title Dharman also carries significance for Rajinikanth’s filmography. The actor has previously appeared in films with similar titles, including Dharma Durai (1991) and Dharmathin Thalaivan (1988).
The film features an ensemble cast that includes Simran, Raashi Khanna, and Yogi Babu in prominent roles. Music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander, while Niketh Bommi serves as cinematographer and Pradeep E Ragav handles editing duties.
The project, previously referred to as Thalaivar 173, has undergone several changes since its announcement. Earlier reports suggested that director Cibi Chakaravarthi would helm the film. However, speculation about his replacement had circulated for months before the official confirmation of Ashwath Marimuthu’s appointment.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Rajinikanth explained the long journey behind the project and the multiple changes in leadership.
“This project was originally set to be directed by K.S. Ravikumar. But that didn’t work out, and then we had Sundar C. on board as the director. However, he had to exit the project due to his other film commitments. Then came Cibi Chakaravarthy; I really liked Cibi’s story, but it was a very sensitive subject. It was about a nuclear scientist, and it demanded shooting in Afghanistan and Russia. Moreover, it seemed like a very time-consuming project, which is why we couldn’t do it. Then we roped in Ashwath Marimuthu,” said Rajinikanth.
The film marks another major collaboration between Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, two of Tamil cinema’s most celebrated icons. Apart from this project, the pair are also working together on another film directed by Nelson.
At the event, Kamal Haasan reflected on their decades-long friendship and their desire to collaborate as producers and actors.
“When Rajinikanth entered the film industry, he was acting in a few minor roles, but within three years, we were both at an equal level. We started acting in many films together, and you all know why we stopped acting together as well. But that time, we decided that we should collaborate on a film, and that either he or I should produce it. Then 40 years went by, and a few years ago, when I started this Raaj Kamal Films International office, we spoke about it again, and we started searching for the right script. Now we are doing two films. I am proud that those two youngsters who were sitting under the tree at AVM Studios have now travelled for so long in the film industry,” said Kamal.
With the title now revealed and production moving forward, expectations for Dharman continue to grow among fans eager to see the two legends collaborate once again.
