Thalaivar173: Rajinikanth joins Sibi Chakraborty’s next, set for Pongal 2027 release
Siby Chakraborty has been confirmed as the director for Thalaivar 173, following the departure of Sundar C due to creative disagreements. The announcement brings Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan’s collaboration back on track with a targeted Pongal 2027 release.

buzz around thalaivar 173 Finally back on track. The makers have roped in filmmaker Siby Chakraborty as the director for the much-awaited project directed by Rajinikanth, bringing new momentum to the film which was in limbo for weeks. The official announcement confirming Chakraborty’s appointment was made on 3 January.
The film marks Rajinikanth’s collaboration with Kamal Haasan and his production banner, Raj Kamal Films International. Sharing the announcement, the makers hinted at the emotional core of the film, writing, “Every hero has a family.”
Advertisementevery hero has a family#arambikalama #thalaivar173 #superstarpongal2027 @Rajinikanth @ikamalhasan @Dir_Cibi @anirudhofficial #mahendran @apifilms @homescreenent@RKFI @turmericmediaTM @magizhmandram pic.twitter.com/IkVVMgi3q8– Raj Kamal Films International (@RKFI) 3 January 2026
This development comes as the project fell into disrepair following the exit of its original director, Sundar C, who walked away due to creative differences with the team. His departure temporarily halted progress and raised questions about the film’s future. Now with Chakraborty stepping in, the production has got direction and momentum again.
Known for directing blockbusters leaderSibi Chakraborty has earned a reputation for providing crowd-pleasing entertainment, making him a strong fit for the scale and expectations surrounding it. thalaivar 173The producers are said to be confident about his vision and ability to make a film featuring two of the biggest icons of Indian cinema,
Sundar C’s exit was reportedly the result of unresolved disagreements over the creative approach of the film. While his departure was seen as a blow, the producers worked quickly to stabilize the project and bring in a director who was in line with their vision.
With Chakraborty on board, pre-production has resumed at full speed. The team is now racing against time to make up for lost ground and is targeting a release in Pongal 2027.