The speculation emerged online amid considerable attention around the project, which has already gone through changes in its directorial lineup, according to TOI. A now-deleted post on X claimed that differences between Rajinikanth and Marimuthu had created tension on the sets. The actor’s team has now publicly rejected the claim.
‘Completely incorrect information’, says Rajinikanth’s PR team
A member of Rajinikanth’s public relations team responded to the social media speculation in Tamil, drawing on their own observations from the shoot.
They said, “This is completely incorrect information. I have witnessed firsthand over many days of shooting that Thalaivar feels very comfortable and happy working with director @Dir_Ashwath, thanks to his dynamic working style. The film Dharman is progressing well, rapidly, and excellently.”
The statement comes as the film continues production under Marimuthu, who was announced as the director in June. The project was initially unveiled as ‘Thalaivar173’ and had two director changes before Marimuthu took charge.
Rajinikanth’s new look in Dharman
The film is expected to reach cinemas in January 2027 and has already attracted attention through its first-look material.
Rajinikanth appears in blue scrubs in the first look, holding a scalpel, hinting at a character connected to the medical field. Simran, Raashii Khanna and Yogi Babu are also part of the cast.
Jailer 2 arrives before Dharman
Rajinikanth’s immediate release, however, is Nelson Dilipkumar’s ‘Jailer 2’, the sequel to his 2023 blockbuster. The film is scheduled to open in theaters on October 15.
Several actors from the first installment are returning, including Ramya Krishnan and Yogi Babu, while Mirnaa will also reprise her role. The sequel has expanded its star cast with cameo appearances by Shiva Rajkumar, Mohanlal, Hrithik Roshan and Jackie Shroff.
Vidya Balan, SJ Suryah, Mithun Chakraborty, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Anna Rajan and Jatin Sarna are also part of the film.
With ‘Jailer 2’ nearing its theatrical release and ‘Dharman’ lined up for January, Rajinikanth has another busy stretch ahead, with both projects adding to his already packed slate.