Sundar C withdraws from Rajinikanth-Kamal alliance film ‘Thalaivar 173’

November 13, 2025 Published by Natarajan Karuppiah

Two mammoths of Tamil cinema, Superstar Rajinikanth and Ulaganayagan Kamal Haasan, are jointly producing ‘Thalaivar 173’, and director Sundar C., who was set to helm the film, has suddenly announced his withdrawal from the responsibility. This news has caused immense shock and disappointment among fans.

Just last week, the official announcement of the film was released on the Rajkamal Films International platform. It was declared that Sundar C. would direct the film, produced by Kamal Haasan, with Rajinikanth in the lead role. It was planned for release through Red Giant Movies for Pongal 2027. This being the first collaboration between Rajini and Sundar C. in 28 years—after their 1997 film Arunachalam—fans were frozen in excitement.

In a statement released today, Sundar C. said, “Due to circumstances that have forced me with great mental stress to step away from this project, which was a part of my dream life, I have had to make this decision because of ‘unexpected and unavoidable circumstances.'” He added, “This opportunity was a dream of my life. Superstar Rajinikanth and Ulaganayagan Kamal Haasan are my idols. My relationship with them is long-standing. I will always follow their guidance,” in his statement.

Earlier, Sundar C.’s wife Khushbu Sundar had posted this announcement on social media, which was later deleted. Since this film marks the reunion of Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth after 46 years, fans celebrated it as a ‘dream alliance’. Notably, Sundar C. had previously directed Rajinikanth in Arunachalam (1997) and worked with Kamal in Anbe Sivam (2003).

Now, it is unknown who the new director will be. Rumors are swirling that Rajini-Kamal may collaborate with directors like Nelson (Jailer, Doctor) for a new film. Fans are stunned and unable to accept this news. Sundar C. concluded his statement by saying, “If this news has disappointed you, please forgive me. I will provide you with the best entertainment.”This major turning point in Tamil cinema has raised further doubts about the future of ‘Thalaivar 173’. More details are expected to emerge soon.