Thalaivar 173: The Real Reason Behind Sundar C’s Exit – Kamal Haasan’s Clarification

November 15, 2025 Published by Natarajan Karuppiah

The much-anticipated Tamil cinema project, Superstar Rajinikanth’s Thalaivar 173, has caused a sudden shock. Produced by Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films and originally set to be directed by Sundar C, the film has now seen Sundar C step down. The moment the announcement broke, fans were left confused. Today, at Chennai airport, Kamal Haasan met the press for the first time and clarified the reason behind the development.

Last week, official photos and a video release had excited fans. After 46 years, the Rajini-Kamal reunion under Sundar C’s direction was announced for a Pongal 2027 release. However, on November 13, Sundar C issued a statement saying, “Due to unexpected and unavoidable circumstances, I am stepping away with a heavy heart.” He called it a dream project for the Rajini-Kamal duo and apologized to fans. The news sent social media and film circles into a frenzy.

At today’s press meet, Kamal Haasan said, “I am an investor. I need to choose a story that my star (Rajini) likes. Sundar C stepped away because a particular story didn’t fit. He has explained the reason in his statement. We are letting go of that story and searching for one that Rajini truly loves. The search is ongoing. We will keep looking until we find it.” This confirms that Sundar C’s exit was due to script differences. Reports suggest that while Rajinikanth liked the basic idea, he demanded major changes to the full script, leaving Sundar C uncertain.

Kamal Haasan’s explanation has eased concerns about the film’s future. “We are also looking for another story where Rajini and I can act together. Unexpected things happen,” he said cheerfully, delighting fans. Though the director is yet to be finalized, names like Venkat Prabhu are reportedly in talks.

While this incident highlights the challenges of big reunions in Tamil cinema, Kamal Haasan’s determined efforts give hope that the film will start soon. Rajini fans are now eagerly awaiting the next update!