Rajinikanth’s Thalaivar 173 titled ‘Dharman’: Kamal Haasan shares 40-year-dream behind collaboration

Superstar Rajinikanth’s upcoming film Thalaivar 173 has officially been titled ‘Dharman’. The title and Rajinikanth’s first-look poster were unveiled at a grand event in Chennai on Tuesday. Directed by Aswath Marimuthu and produced by Kamal Haasan under Raaj Kamal Films International, the film has already created excitement among fans. The makers reportedly revealed that Rajinikanth will play the role of a ‘deadly doctor’ in the movie.

Speaking at the event, Kamal Haasan became emotional while talking about his long friendship and professional relationship with Rajinikanth. He reportedly thanked audiences for supporting him throughout his career and said he felt proud to finally produce a film starring Rajinikanth. Kamal described the project as a special moment in his journey and a dream that had taken decades to become reality.

Kamal also shared an interesting story from around 40 years ago. He reportedly  recalled a flight journey to Mumbai during which he and Rajinikanth were discussing offers to act together in films. During that conversation, they decided that one day one of them should produce a film for the other. Although the idea remained only a dream for many years, both actors continued to wait for the right story and the right opportunity to make it happen. 

The veteran actor revealed that the plan was revived recently when Rajinikanth attended the opening of the RKFI office. While talking together, they once again discussed working on a project. Kamal reportedly said that after searching for the perfect script, they finally found a story worthy of bringing them together. He added that their partnership would not end with ‘Dharman’, as they are also working on another major project together.

Looking back on their remarkable careers, Kamal reportedly said he was proud of how far they had come. He remembered their early days in the film industry, sitting under a neem tree at AVM Studio as young actors hoping for success. He said, neither of them imagined they would achieve such great heights and credited fans for their continued love and support over the decades.

Kamal also praised director Aswath Marimuthu and expressed confidence in his vision for the film. He reportedly joked that Rajinikanth had been excitedly telling people about acting in a Kamal Haasan production and added that Rajinikanth and Mahendran had taken on many production responsibilities. 

Besides Rajinikanth, Dharman stars Simran and Raashi Khanna in key roles. The film features music by Anirudh Ravichander, cinematography by Niketh Bommi, editing by Pradeep E. Ragav, and action choreography by the National Award-winning duo Anbariv.