24 June,2026 03:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Rajinikanth (Pic/AFP)
Rajinikanth recently attended the title reveal event of his upcoming film Thalaivar 173, which is being backed by Kamal Haasan. While addressing the audience, he candidly admitted that he often hesitates to speak at public events because his words are frequently scrutinised and criticised. The superstar said that whether he speaks or remains silent, people always find a reason to question him.
Speaking at an event for his upcoming film Dharman, Rajinikanth said, "I hesitate when I'm invited to speak. When I speak, it's a problem. It's a problem for me. It's a problem for others. They will start spreading something. If I don't speak, they'll ask why I'm not speaking. If I speak, they will ask why I'm speaking now. Some will say I shouldn't have spoken. After a long time, I realized that those who don't like us won't like anything we do or anything about us. It is foolish to think that those who like us will like us no matter what."
The comments immediately generated debate in political circles, with many attempting to interpret them in the context of recent developments in Tamil Nadu politics. Political observers pointed to criticism directed at Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay over his public communication style and his speeches in the Assembly. Vijay's response to the Governor's Address in the Assembly on Tuesday had already attracted considerable political attention.
Against this backdrop, Rajinikanth's remarks were viewed by some as a subtle message of support or advice to the Chief Minister. Others, however, argued that the actor was merely sharing his views on dealing with criticism and public life.
The makers of superstar Rajinikanth's upcoming film, which had until now been referred to as #Thalaivar173, on Wednesday announced its title as Dharman, much to the delight of fans and film buffs. Actor, producer, and parliamentarian Kamal Haasan, whose production house Raaj Kamal Films International is producing the film, took to X to announce the title.
The film will feature music by Anirudh. Cinematography is by Niketh Bommi, while editing will be handled by Pradeep E. Raghav. The stunts are being choreographed by National Award-winning duo Anbariv. The film is being produced by Kamal Haasan and R. Mahendran, and co-produced by S. Disney.
Apart from this, Rajinikanth is also gearing up for Nelson Dilipkumar's Jailer 2, which will reportedly feature a cameo by Hrithik Roshan. The film has already generated huge excitement.
