13 November,2025 04:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan and Sundar C
Days after Kamal Haasan announced his upcoming production starring Rajinikanth in the lead, the director of the film has backed out. Director Sundar C was set to direct the epic film but has now announced his decision to step down. The filmmaker shared a letter on social media announcing the 'difficult decision' of stepping down from the film.
On Thursday, Sundar C issued a statement saying he was making the difficult decision to step back from the project due to "unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances."
Sundar C, who is one of Tamil cinema's finest commercial film directors, in a statement titled "A Heartfelt Note to My Dearest Fans and Well-Wishers", wrote, "It is with a heavy heart that I share some important news with you. Due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances, I have made the difficult decision to step back from the prestigious project, #Thalaivar173."
The director went on to say,"This venture, featuring the legendary Superstar Thiru. Rajinikanth Avl and to be produced by the illustrious Ulaghanayagan Thiru. Kamal Haasan Avl, was indeed a dream come true for me. In life, there are moments when we must follow the path laid out for us, even if it diverges from our dreams."
Stating that his association with the two icons went back a long way, the director said, "I will always hold them in the highest regard. The special moments we have shared over the past few days will be cherished forever by me. They have taught me invaluable lessons, and I will continue to seek their inspiration and wisdom as I move forward."
"I thank both of them from the bottom of my heart for considering me for this magnum opus," he told the superstars of Tamil cinema before going on to address his fans.
To his fans, the director said, "Please accept my sincere apologies if this news has disappointed those who had eagerly anticipated this venture. I am committed to making it up to you and promise to continue bringing you entertainment that keeps your spirits high. Thank you for your unwavering support and understanding. It means the world to me, and I look forward to creating more memories with you all."
Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, two of Tamil cinema's biggest icons, previously shared the screen in several memorable 1980s films, including Apoorva Raagangal, 16 Vayathinile, Moondru Mudichu, Thappu Thalangal, and Ninaithale Inikkum. It has been 46 years since they have shared screen and fans have been eagerly awaiting their reunion.
Earlier this year, when Haasan was asked about the possibility of sharing screen with the Coolie star, he said, "Yes, I have acted in many films with Rajini. We will act together again."
Rajinikanth also expressed interest in collaborating with Haasan on screen. "Kamal and I do wish to act together. If we get the right story and characters, we will act together. But as of now, no one has finalised the story, characters, or director," the superstar who is currently shooting for Jailer 2 had said
