The upcoming Rajinikanth film Thalaivar173, produced by Rajinikanth Film International (RKFI), has witnessed another major shake-up in its directorial lineup. Director Cibi Chakravarthy, known for his work on Don, has reportedly been removed from the project, marking the second high-profile exit after Sundar C stepped away earlier.
Industry insiders suggest that the production house is now considering Ashwath Marimuthu, the filmmaker behind Oh My Kadavule and the upcoming Dragon, as the new director. Marimuthu’s name gained traction after Rajinikanth himself praised the interval block of his story, sparking speculation that RKFI may hand him the reins of the much-anticipated project.
The changes highlight the challenges in finalizing the creative vision for Thalaivar173. With Rajinikanth’s films carrying immense expectations, producers are under pressure to secure a director who can balance mass appeal with fresh storytelling. Sundar C’s departure was initially seen as a setback, but the removal of Cibi Chakravarthy has intensified curiosity about the film’s direction.
Fans are particularly intrigued by the possibility of Ashwath Marimuthu stepping in. His debut film Oh My Kadavule was praised for its inventive narrative and emotional depth, while Dragon has already generated buzz for its ambitious scale. If confirmed, his appointment could signal a shift toward a younger, more experimental approach to Rajinikanth’s cinema.
As of now, RKFI has not issued an official statement regarding the replacement. However, the speculation has fueled discussions across social media, with fans debating whether Marimuthu’s style will align with Rajinikanth’s larger-than-life persona.
With production timelines yet to be announced, the industry awaits clarity on the film’s creative leadership. Whether Ashwath Marimuthu is officially confirmed or another name emerges, Thalaivar173 remains one of the most closely watched projects in Tamil cinema, promising to shape the next chapter in Rajinikanth’s illustrious career.
