Highlights
- Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan to reunite on screen after 46 years in Thalaivar 173.
- The film will be directed by Sundar C and is slated for a Pongal 2027 release.
- Fans are excited but divided over the decision to exclude composer Anirudh Ravichander.
Fans celebrate the reunion of two icons
The announcement of Thalaivar 173, a film that marks the long-awaited on-screen reunion of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan after nearly five decades, has sparked a storm of excitement across social media.
Produced under Kamal Haasan’s banner and directed by Sundar C, the project was officially revealed earlier this week, prompting fans to flood X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram with celebratory posts.
Phrases like “Two legends, one screen” and “A dream come true for Tamil cinema” trended under the hashtag #Thalaivar173, as admirers shared fan art, memes, and nostalgic tributes to the duo’s cinematic legacy.
A family entertainer in the making
According to reports, Sundar C’s film will be a family entertainer with emotional themes and minimal violence, a genre he’s known for balancing successfully.
Many fans praised the choice, writing that they expect “a wholesome Rajini film” with Sundar C’s trademark humor and sentiment. Others hoped Kamal Haasan might make a cameo appearance, even though the film primarily features Rajinikanth in the lead role.
However, there were also differing opinions on the creative team. Some felt that director Karthik Subbaraj, who worked with Rajinikanth on Petta, would have been a stronger fit for such a historic collaboration.
Music debate: “No Anirudh, please”
While the announcement thrilled long-time followers, a surprising point of contention emerged online the film’s music composer.
Several fans expressed disappointment at rumors that Anirudh Ravichander might be part of the project. Comments like “Give us a new combo” and “Let’s try someone different this time” echoed widely across fan discussions.
Some even suggested Hiphop Tamizha Adhi as a potential composer, hoping for a fresh sound to complement the legendary pairing.
The buzz builds online
Since the official announcement, excitement for Thalaivar 173 has only intensified. Social media feeds are filled with fan posters, countdown edits, and posts predicting record-breaking box-office numbers.
“Seeing Rajini and Kamal together is a festival in itself,” one fan wrote, while another added, “The teaser alone will be a celebration.”
With the film targeting a Pongal 2027 release, expectations are sky-high. Whether it’s the story, the music, or the nostalgia of two cinematic greats reuniting, Thalaivar 173 has already become one of the most talked-about Tamil films in recent memory.














Mallika Sherawat and Sacha Gervasi attend The BAFTA Tea presented by Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic & sponsored by Bentley Beverly Hills, The Four Seasons, Don Julio, Heineken, Maison Perrier, and Threads at Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills on January 10, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. Getty Images


(L-R) Cast member of the "Real Housewives of Orange County" Lauri Waring, Vicki Gunvalson,Jeana Keough, Tammy Knickerbocker, and Tamara Barney attend the kick off of 'Project Runway' Season Four at Lincoln Center Plaza on November 6, 2007 in New York City.Getty Images
From "The Real Housewives of New York City," Bethenny Frankel, Alex McCord, Countess LuAnn de Lesseps, Ramona Singer and Jill Zarin attend the screening party for Bravo's "The Real Housewives of New York City," at Touch March 3, 2008 in New York City.Getty Images