If sources are to be believed, pop sensation and actor Harrdy Sandhu is all set to return to his roots as a leading actor. After his last successful stint in Bollywood, Sandhu is set to headline an upcoming Punjabi feature film. The female lead being considered opposite him is Simrat Kaur. According to sources, the film promises a fresh pairing and a story like never before, making it one of the most anticipated Punjabi films of the year. Harrdy Sandhu to return to Punjabi cinema While Harrdy has dominated global music charts, his return to Punjabi cinema marks a significant milestone. His film journey has spanned high-octane dramas and sports biopics, and he is now expected to be seen in a softer, more romantic avatar — something fans are excited about. Harrdy’s return to the Punjabi screen marks his first lead role in the regional industry since Mahi NRI (2017). In the intervening years, he made a notable impact in Bollywood, earning widespread acclaim for portraying legendary cricketer Madan Lal in 83, co-starring Ranveer Singh. He most recently delivered an intense performance opposite Parineeti Chopra in Code Name: Tiranga (2022). Notably, Harrdy Sandhu is also a former cricketer. He had played Under-19 for India and Ranji Trophy matches for Punjab. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, he had to end his cricketing career. The untitled project, backed by producer Siddhant Pilania, promises to bring a fresh cinematic flavour to audiences, with the new pairing further adding to the excitement among fans. While plot details are currently under wraps, the film is expected to leverage Harrdy’s massive star appeal while maintaining high production values. With the deal reportedly finalised, expectations are sky-high for this significant project. Harrdy Sandhu's personal life Meanwhile, the singer celebrated a personal milestone last year when he and his wife Zenith Sidhu welcomed their second child. He shared the news with his followers through Instagram. He shared a picture showing the tiny hands of the newborn, beautifully framed by his hands, his wife's hands, and those of his firstborn, making it look like a perfect family portrait. Harrdy Sandhu is best known for his songs Soch, Joker, Backbone, Naah Goriye and Bijlee Bijlee among others.
20 February,2026 06:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMahesh Babu is gearing up for director SS Rajamouli's upcoming magnum opus, Varanasi. The actor will be playing the role of Lord Ram in a key portion of the film. While Rajamouli himself has revealed the same, a poster featuring Mahesh Babu as Lord Ram was recently spotted at a cinema hall in Andhra Pradesh. Interestingly, the makers have not officially revealed a poster, which has led to speculations among the fans. Mahesh Babu as Lord Ram in Varanasi poster Mythri Cinemas in Andhra Pradesh's Guntur recently put up a Varanasi poster digitally, and the poster has since gone viral. The digital hoarding shows Mahesh Babu dressed as Lord Ram, holding the bow and overlooking the sea. It also has the words, "Mahesh Babu as Sri Ram" along with the Varanasi film's logo. Although the makers haven't officially released this version of Mahesh Babu's look or visual, the Lord Ram poster with the title being displayed in theatres has sparked a buzz. Mahesh Babu's role in Varanasi During the title and film launch of Varanasi, on November 15, 2025, SS Rajamouli had revealed that Mahesh Babu will play Lord Ram in the film. He added that they have also shot a Ramayana episode for 60 days. "On the first day, when Mahesh came in Lord Rama's get-up for the photoshoot, I got goosebumps. I was torn. Mahesh has the charm of Krishna, but the calmness of Rama. Still, I was confident. I even set that photo as my wallpaper and then removed it," he shared. Similarly, while speaking to Screen Rant Plus, Mahesh Babu revealed that Rajamouli had demanded precision from him to play Lord Ram. He recalled undergoing an intense training schedule to perfect the posture, gait and the slightest detail. He also opened up about learning Kalari, the ancient martial art form from Kerala, for three months. Directed by SS Rajamouli, Varanasi features Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra,and Prithviraj Sukumaran in lead roles. It also stars Prakash Raj in pivotal role. The film, which reportedly spans different timelines and continents, is scheduled to hit theatres on April 7, 2027.
20 February,2026 05:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentPan-Indian star Prabhas, who was born in Chennai and who stayed in the coastal city before migrating to Hyderabad, has now opened up on his love for Chennai, saying he still misses the city sometimes. The actor, who was seen interacting with the core team of the superhit Telugu film Couple Friendly, featuring actors Santosh Soban and Manasa Varanasi in the lead, told director Ashwin Chandrasekar about his love for Chennai. Prabhas shares fond memories of Chennai Ashwin Chandrasekar asked Prabhas, "I heard you shifted here from Chennai. What is there inside you about Chennai?" To this, Prabhas replied, "I was born there. I studied at Don Bosco School in Chennai. Even now, I feel Chennai. After shifting here, I forgot Tamil, but Raju Master and Prabhu master are very close friends. Also, a lot of technicians are Tamil. Be it Rajasekhar master, a lot of technicians, even in the Telugu film industry, are Tamil. By speaking with them in Tamil, my Tamil has become better; otherwise, I almost forgot the language after coming here." The actor further said, "Still, when I go to Chennai, I see Don Bosco school. I miss Chennai sometimes. I like the place a lot. In school, I used to speak correct Tamil. Now, it is there, but occasionally, I will miss the right words." For the unaware, a good portion of the Telugu film Couple Friendly is set in Chennai. Director Ashwin Chandrasekar made the coastal city one of the characters in his film. The story revolves around Mithra (Manasa Varanasi), who moves in with Shiva( Santosh Soban) because of certain circumstances. With time, both of them fall in love, and they have a live-in relationship. As things begin to fall in place, Mithra tells Shiva that they should get married. But what happens then is what the film is all about. Did Prabhas quit the mythological film Baka? According to a recent Gulte report, Prabhas and Prasanth Varma were set to collaborate on a mythological project tentatively titled Baka. In the film, Prabhas was reportedly set to play Bakasura. The film was said to be produced by Mythri Movie Makers. A test shoot with Prabhas also allegedly took place a few months ago. However, according to the latest reports, Prabhas was not fully convinced after the shoot and hence is believed to have stepped away from the project. Although there has been no official confirmation from the makers, industry buzz suggests that the film may not move forward. If Prabhas' exit is confirmed, this would mark another setback for Prasanth Varma. For the unversed, similar reports regarding projects involving Ranveer Singh’s Brahma Rakshasa and Nandamuri Mokshagna’s debut have emerged earlier.
20 February,2026 04:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentActors Vijay and Ajith Kumar are two of the biggest stars of Tamil cinema. The two enjoy a massive fan following, and there has been a public perception of rivalry between them. Fan wars among admirers of the two have often made headlines as well. They are also not known to give many interviews and believe in letting their work speak. Recently, Ajith's wife and former actress Shalini revealed that the two actors share a good relationship despite their films competing at the box office. Shalini on Ajith and Vijay's equation Shalini was speaking about her husband Ajith and his equation with actor-politician Vijay at the JFW Movie Awards in Chennai. Talking about their equation, she shared, “It’s a good relationship; they both are very happy for each other’s success and everything. It’s beautiful.” Director Venkat Prabhu has worked with both Ajith and Vijay. He directed Ajith's 2011 hit Mankatha and Vijay’s 2024 hit film The Greatest of All Time (GOAT). In 2024, Prabhu revealed that Ajith had wished him well for The Greatest of All Time and even asked him to make it 100 times better than Mankatha. At the time, it was believed that the film would be Vijay's farewell project. During the film’s release, Venkat posted an old picture with both actors and thanked Ajith for his wishes. Last year, Ajith's team also quashed rumours of bad blood between the two actors. Ajith received the Padma Bhushan honour last year, during which it was rumoured that Vijay did not congratulate him. However, Ajith's team released a statement clarifying that Vijay was among the first to congratulate him, both on his racing victory and on receiving the Padma Bhushan, reaffirming their genuine friendship. In November last year, Ajith once again reiterated that there is no rivalry between him and Vijay. In an interview with Rangaraj Pandey, addressing the rivalry, he said that some people were creating misconceptions leading to fan clashes and that he has always wished Vijay well. On the work front Vijay will be contesting his first election in April this year as part of the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls. His farewell film Jana Nayagan was supposed to release in theatres in January but got delayed due to CBFC issues. Since the model code of conduct has come into place, the film cannot be released before April 30, 2026. Ajith, on the other hand, is yet to announce his next film. He is currently busy pursuing his racing ambitions.
20 February,2026 04:42 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe highly anticipated sequel to Karthi's 2019 action film Kaithi is once again making headlines after a censor certificate screenshot of the film allegedly surfaced on social media. The image, now going viral, suggests that the upcoming film, starring Karthi and helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, could be renamed and titled Dilli. Kaithi 2 renamed to Dilli? A fan recently shared a screengrab of what appears to be a censor certificate. The photo immediately went viral on the internet, leaving fans are super excited about the latest update. According to reports, the film has been renamed and is now titled Dilli. Reports also suggest that a 30-second teaser of the film has also been shot. 👀🤔 pic.twitter.com/CD6KR5af3K — AB George (@AbGeorge_) February 19, 2026 The censor certificate shows that the film has been titled Dilli, and that the application for the certificate was made by Dream Warrior Pictures, the production house behind Kaithi. The reports could be true since the name of Karthi's character in the 2019 film was Dilli, making it a fitting choice for the title. Kaithi 2 delay Earlier, while speaking at a press conference in Chennai on January 26, director Lokesh revealed that the sequel to Kaithi remains a priority and that it is a part of his future plans. However, the project is expected to move forward after the filmmaker completes his upcoming project with Allu Arjun, tentatively titled AA23. Addressing reports about Kaithi 2 being stalled due to a salary hike, Lokesh dismissed the claims, explaining that the real reason for the delay were far more practical. He said that one of the major factors was a proposed project that would have brought Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth together. Lokesh stated that he spent nearly one and a half months developing the script, however, eventually stepped away since the story did not align with what the two stars were looking to do at this stage. He noted that both the legends were interested in a lighter film after a run of action-heavy roles. Additionally, he shared that Karthi, who leads Kaithi, had already committed his dates to another project when the sequel was initially being planned. Talking about the salary rumours, the director was firm, stating that finances were never the issue. Kaithi 2 or Dilli, if official, will mark a sequel to the 2019 movie Kaithi, which told the story of Dilli, an ex-convict who is forced to assist a police officer as a mafia group is behind them. Along with Karthi, the film includes an ensemble cast that includes Narain, Arjun Das, Harish Uthaman, George Maryan, and many others in key roles.
20 February,2026 03:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAfter receiving immense love during its theatrical release earlier this year, Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam is all set to reach audiences worldwide with its World Digital Premiere on Marathi ZEE5 on 27th February 2026. Directed by Hemant Dhome and produced by Kshitee Jog along with Viraj Gawas, Urfi Kazmi, and Ajinkya Dhamal, Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam is a poignant social drama that celebrates the spirit, resilience, and cultural pride of Marathi-medium education. The film beautifully captures the emotional journey of a Marathi school and its community as they navigate contemporary challenges while holding onto their roots and identity. About Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam Releasing on Marathi Bhasha Gaurav Din adds deeper meaning to the premiere, reinforcing the film’s core message about the enduring importance of mother-tongue education. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast including Sachin Khedekar, Amey Wagh, Prajakta Koli (in her Marathi film debut),Kshitee Jog, Siddharth Chandekar, Harish Dudhade, Pushkaraj Chirputkar, and Kadambari Kadam, the film struck a deep chord with audiences in cinemas and is now poised to inspire many more through its digital premiere. With its compelling narrative, strong performances, and heartfelt tribute to Marathi-medium institutions, Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam is set to touch audiences once again only on Marathi ZEE5 from 27th February 2026. Speaking about bringing the film to ZEE5, Hema V.R., Chief Channel Officer – Zee Marathi and Business Head – Marathi ZEE5 said, “ Marathi Bhasha Diwas is a moment of immense pride for all of us — a celebration of a language that carries generations of culture, identity, and storytelling. With the release of Krantijyoti Vidyalay on Marathi ZEE5, we are honoured to bring a story that reflects the importance of Marathi Bhasha and Marathi Shala (schools) in the culture fabric of this state." Producer and actor Kshitee Jog added, “Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam was born out of a deep emotional conviction. As a producer, I have always believed that cinema has the power to preserve culture, start conversations, and remind us of who we are. This film was made with immense love and an unwavering belief in its message - that education in one’s mother tongue is not just about language, but about identity, confidence, and cultural continuity." Team of Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam on film's OTT release Director Hemant Dhome added, “This film is a celebration of Marathi-medium schools and the emotional fabric they represent. It speaks about pride, belonging, and the importance of preserving our linguistic and cultural heritage. The love we received in theatres was overwhelming, and with Marathi ZEE5, we now have the opportunity to reach countless homes and hearts.” Lead actor Sachin Khedekar shared, “Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam is more than just a film - it is a reflection of our collective memory. Many of us have grown up in Marathi-medium schools that shaped our values and character. Being part of a story that honours that legacy has been deeply fulfilling. I’m thrilled that audiences worldwide will now experience this journey on Marathi ZEE5.” Amey Wagh said, “What truly drew me to the movie was its emotional honesty and the quiet power of its message. Marathi-medium schools are not just institutions - they are spaces where values are shaped, confidence is built, and cultural roots are strengthened. The film beautifully captures that emotional connection while also addressing the very real challenges these institutions face today. The overwhelming response we received in theatres was incredibly encouraging, and I genuinely believe that with its digital premiere, the film will reach even more families and spark meaningful conversations about preserving our language, embracing progress, and finding balance between the two.” Making her Marathi cinema debut, Prajakta Koli expressed, “Stepping into Marathi cinema with Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam has been an incredibly emotional and fulfilling experience for me. Marathi is the language I grew up speaking at home - it carries my childhood, my memories, and my sense of belonging. There is warmth and authenticity in Marathi storytelling that feels intimate and honest, and I’m grateful that my first step into this space is with a film that carries such an important and relevant message. I’m really excited that with its premiering on OTT, the film will now reach homes across the world and connect with audiences who see their own stories reflected in it.”
20 February,2026 02:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAs the most awaited Indian film of 2026, Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown Ups has kept its finger off the trigger for months, building immense anticipation through high-impact imagery. The official teaser has finally been fired—and the shot hits the bullseye. Toxic teaser Moving from a circus setting to an East Asian-inspired backdrop, the story spans different time periods with a dark, edgy atmosphere. Yet, beneath the brutal exterior and high-octane visuals, the teaser offers a glimpse into something deeper: a meticulous focus on storytelling and powerhouse performance that serves as the beating heart of this gritty universe. The teaser is packed with visuals of gunfights, explosions and car chases, showing how the world is ruled by power and violence. Interspersed between the gore are scenes of a dockyard with a ship anchored and a snow-covered terrain with helicopters circling overhead. The teaser opens with Yash's character, Raya, declaring, "This war will be different," indicating an upcoming battle to seize control over the crime syndicate. A man tells Raya to give up, urging him not to go against the world. A furious Raya replies, "It's not over until I say it's over." He is then shown shooting bullets, punching a man until he falls down dead and slashing the throats of several others with a dagger. At the end, the teaser introduces a new, mysterious character, whose face remains hidden. It ends with a voiceover saying, "I'm home. Daddy" At the centre of this cinematic storm stands Rocking Star Yash, undergoing a transformation that is nothing short of a total reinvention. His physical evolution serves as one of the film’s most powerful statements, showcasing a range of appearances, from a lean, agile silhouette to a massive, battle-hardened physique, all forged through relentless discipline. He infuses each distinct look with precise body language and sharp mannerisms, signalling an intense, layered performance that marks a total departure from his previous roles. Toxic Plot According to Phars Film's website, Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups is set in Goa and spans from pre-Independence India to the post-Independence era. The narrative begins in the early 1940s and continues until the 1970s. The synopsis reads, "Set in Goa between the early 1940s and the 1970s, Toxic is a savage action-thriller saga that plunges into the rot festering beneath paradise. In this coastal land of fading colonial shadows and rising crime syndicates, a man forges his empire through blood, fear, and betrayal." It further states, "Power is not granted- it is seized, and it always demands repayment. As smuggling routes become battlegrounds and loyalties unravel into suspicion, paranoia becomes a means of survival. In the end, the only force more powerful than the consequences of his choices is the abyss within him." It may be recalled that the makers have already disclosed the looks and character names of the actresses who are a part of the film. Nayanthara plays Ganga, Kiara Advani plays Nadia, Huma Qureshi plays Elizabeth, Rukmini Vasanth plays Mellisa, and Tara Sutaria stars as Rebecca in the film. Judging by the sheer scale and grit on display, March 19, 2026, is a promise that the world of Toxic will more than live up to.
20 February,2026 12:09 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDirector Nahas Hidhayath on Thursday announced that ace Tamil director and actor Mysskin had completed his portions in his eagerly awaited action thriller, I'm Game, featuring actor Dulquer Salmaan in the lead. Taking to his Instagram page, the director posted a video of Mysskin singing Endha Poovilum Vaasamundu and wrote, "Mysskin directormysskin Sir completed his portion in imgamemovie with a song from the heart. Directing him has been a true honour and a deeply fulfilling experience. We can’t wait to show you the powerful presence he brings to the screen." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nahas Hidhayath (@nahas_hidhayath) It may be recalled that Dulquer Salmaan, who plays the lead in the film, had only recently taken to his Instagram page to pen a post of gratitude for having completed 14 years in the industry. He had said, "Today marks 14 years of my journey as an actor. Thank you, each and every one of you ! For the endless love. For the encouragement. For a place in your hearts. To mark this milestone sharing a poster from my next ! ImGame. Coming to Cinemas near you this Onam." The makers of the film had only in December last year welcomed actress Kayadu Lohar onboard the unit of the film. Kayadu Lohar is best known for her performance in director Ashwath Marimuthu's Tamil film Dragon, in which she played one of the female leads. Taking to his Instagram page, director Nahas Hidhayath had then said, "Adding sparkle to ImGame – thrilled to welcome the gorgeous KayaduLohar!." The film has triggered huge interest in fans and film buffs ever since the makers released the first look poster of Dulquer Salmaan in the film. The first look poster had Dulquer striking a stylish pose with a pistol in his hand. I'm Game marks director Nahas Hidayath’s next venture after the blockbuster hit RDX. Posters featuring the other lead actors, too have been released by the makers. The movie has quickly become one of the most anticipated releases of the year. The film officially went on floors on May 3 last year. Actors Antony Varghese, Mysskin, Kathir, Parth Thiwari, and Tamil actress Samyuktha Viswanathan play pivotal roles in the project. Produced by Dulquer Salmaan along with Jom Verghese, I'm Game has triggered immense interest as this will mark Dulquer's return to Malayalam cinema. The story of I'm Game, which happens to be Dulquer's 40th film, is by Nahas Hidhayath himself while its screenplay is by Sajeer Baba, Bilal Moidu and Ismail Aboobacker. Cinematography for the film is by Jimshi Khalid and editing is by Chaman Chakko. Music for the film, which has raised huge expectations among fans and film buffs, is by Jakes Bejoy. Costumes for the film have been designed by Mashar Hamsa and production design is by Deepak Parameshwaran. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
20 February,2026 11:16 AM IST | Chennai | IANSVijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s wedding is one of the most anticipated events of the year. While the couple has neither confirmed nor denied the rumours, their appearances, alleged wedding invite, and details about preparations have got fans excited. To maintain secrecy around their union, the couple has roped in a global security agency. Vijay, Rashmika hire international security agency for wedding As per a report by India Today, the South stars have roped in an international security agency to secure the venue and maintain privacy. A source shared with the portal, “Rashmika and Vijay are private people, and they wanted their biggest day to be just about them and their close ones. Given the venue in Udaipur is such a large place, they wanted to secure the surroundings well.” “To secure the perimeter of the palace, a specialised agency from abroad has been hired. They will be collaborating with local Rajasthan security to ensure absolute privacy of the events,” the source added. The source also shared that the planning for the February 26 wedding has been meticulous and deliberately kept under the radar. Vendors have been sworn to discretion, logistics are being handled discreetly, and inner circles are maintaining absolute silence. About Vijay and Rashmika’s wedding The actors are all set to get married in an intimate yet lavish ceremony in Udaipur. The festivities will be a two-day soiree from February 24 to 26. A few days ago, their wedding invite went viral, indicating that they will be hosting a reception on March 4 in Hyderabad. According to a report by India Today, they have opted for a no-phone policy at the wedding venue. The ceremony is believed to be strictly private. No actors or industry colleagues have been invited, according to reports. The guest list for the wedding ceremony includes only immediate family members and a few close friends. After the wedding, the couple is planning a month-long break from work. Vijay and Rashmika’s love story Rashmika and Vijay have been rumoured to be dating since their first on-screen pairing in the 2018 hit Geetha Govindam, followed by Dear Comrade in 2019. The couple is all set to mark their third collaboration with Rana Baali. Apart from this, Vijay has Rowdy Janardhana in his kitty, while Rashmika recently wrapped up the shoot of Cocktail 2.
20 February,2026 09:08 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFiction stories have populated cinematographer KK Senthil Kumar’s 23-year filmography. Now that he is neck-deep in his first biopic, he agrees he couldn’t have asked for a more ambitious project. He has wrapped up two schedules of Maa Vande, a biopic on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that sees Malayalam actor Unni Mukundan portray the leader. It’s not only the story, but also the film’s technical finesse that has the cinematographer excited. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with actor Unni Mukundan; (right) KK Senthil Kumar Kumar reveals that Maa Vande is being shot on the ARRI 265, a 65 mm large-format camera rarely used even internationally. “The sensor is three to four times bigger than a 35 mm sensor. The imagery will be much sharper, something not seen before on Indian screens,” he says, adding that Hollywood director Christopher Nolan sometimes uses ARRI equipment. Hollywood filmmaker Christopher Nolan reportedly used ARRI equipment for wide shots in ‘Dunkirk’ Maa Vande’s beating heart, however, will be its story. Penned by director Kranthi Kumar, the multi-lingual film will focus on the prime minister’s bond with his mother Heeraben Modi. Kumar elaborates, “This film shows how his mother inspired the prime minister to become what he has today. We did not want this to be a propaganda film.” KK Senthil Kumar has shot many of SS Rajamouli’s films, including: . ‘Magadheera’ (2009). ‘Eega’ (2012). ‘Baahubali: The Beginning’ (2015). ‘Baahubali: The Conclusion’ (2017). ‘RRR’ (2022
20 February,2026 07:42 AM IST | Mumbai | Komal RJ PanchalA film starring legends Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan is seemingly in the making. On Thursday, Red Giant Movies shared a post on social media hinting that the Tamil superstars will star together in a much-anticipated project. Notably, the last time the duo worked together was 47 years ago, Naturallym fans are exited to finally see the two legends in one frame. Makers tease KHxRK Red Giant Movies, on Thursday, hinted that Rajinikanth and Kamal will finally share the screen. Sharing a post, they wrote, “Two Legends. One Frame. Next update at 12:07 tomorrow. KHxRK RedGiant17.” They also shared a poster with KH and RK written on it with a vintage car as a confirmation for fans. The caption, which read, “Some men set rules, some men just rule,” further raised speculations. Two Legends. One Frame. Next update at 12:07 tomorrow. ⏳#KHxRK #RedGiant17 ✨ pic.twitter.com/FrAA4MdBMa — Red Giant Movies (@RedGiantMovies_) February 19, 2026 Earlier on Thursday morning, the makers teased the announcement by releasing a poster with the saying, “When stars align, you don’t choose sides”, which sent many fans guessing that the announcement could be about Kamal and Rajinikanth's much-awaited project as promised. Meanwhile, fans have began spculating that the film could be helmed by Nelson, while others think it'll be Lokesh Kanagaraj. Fans soon flooded the comments section with replies like, “Some men set rules… some men just rule. And these two? They defined eras.” Another excited user wrote, “The King & The Emperor. One Frame. Zero Rules,” a third user commented, “Thalaivar X Nayagan coming." When they spoke about their collaboration Earlier, while addressing the press in September last year, Rajinikanth had said, “We are going to do a film with Raaj Kamal Films International and Red Giant Movies. The director has not yet been decided. Kamal and I want to do a film together. If we get a story and role, we will act.” Kamal also spoke about the collaboration at SIIMA saying, “We don't know if it's a Tharamana Sambavam (wonderful occurrence), but it's good if the audience likes it. If they're happy, we'll like it. Otherwise, we'll continue trying. This was long coming. We were separate because they gave one biscuit to both of us. But the half biscuit makes us both happy, so we'll come together.” In October 2025, Shruti Haasan and Soundarya Rajinikanth were asked about their respective fathers collaborating. To this, Shruti replied, “We also wish for it. We are also waiting like you," while Soundarya added, “It would be correct if our fathers gave the update. But definitely, Appa will work in Kamal uncle’s banner (Raaj Kamal Films International). What kind of movie it will be, and all those details are a work in progress. So, Thalaiva himself will reveal it soon.”
19 February,2026 09:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
