South superstars Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan are reuniting after 46 years for a new film tentatively titled Thalaivar 173. The film will be directed by Sundar C and produced by Kamal Haasan under his Raaj Kamal Films International banner.
This is a massive moment for Tamil cinema. The two legends are not sharing screen space but are coming together as producer and lead star. Thalaivar 173 will be released by Red Giant Movies during Pongal 2027.
Thalaivar 173 Is Rajinikanth And Kamal Haasan’s Long-Awaited Reunion
Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan last acted together in Ninaithale Inikkum (1979). Between 1975 and 1979, they worked together in 21 films, including classics like Apoorva Raagangal (1975), Moondru Mudichu (1976), and 16 Vayathinile (1977). These films defined their early years and made them household names.
After 1979, both took different paths. Rajinikanth became a global superstar, known for his style and larger-than-life roles. Kamal Haasan carved his space as a versatile actor and visionary filmmaker. Though their careers went separate ways, their bond as friends stayed strong.
In a joint statement, the makers said Thalaivar 173 is “a celebration of five decades of friendship and brotherhood between Superstar Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan.”
Kamal Haasan Announces The Film, Fans Share Their Request
Kamal Haasan officially announced the project on Wednesday. He shared pictures with Rajinikanth and a handwritten note revealing the film’s title, director, and release date.
Fans were surprised by the choice of Sundar C as director. Many had expected Lokesh Kanagaraj or Nelson Dilipkumar to take charge. However, Sundar C, known for his commercial hits, now has the responsibility of bringing this historic project to life.

Soon after the announcement, fans took to social media with one common request — they want Hiphop Tamizha as the music composer.
One user wrote, “After 8 years, Rajinikanth is going to be working with a different production house apart from Lyca and Sun Pictures. So, for sure, it is not going to be Anirudh here. Madly waiting for Sundar C na to announce HipHop Tamizha as composer.”
Another fan said, “We want Hiphop Tamizha musical. Make it happen.”
A third comment read, “Need OG Hiphop Tamizha as composer.”
Hiphop Tamizha and Kamal Haasan already share a connection. In 2022, Haasan launched the trailer of Anbarivu, where Hiphop Tamizha played the lead. He also invited the actor-composer and the film’s producer to his show Bigg Boss Tamil for the trailer release.
Rajinikanth And Kamal Haasan’s Recent Films
Rajinikanth was last seen in Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. The action film follows Deva, a former coolie who turns rebel after uncovering a smuggling ring and dark secrets from his past. The cast also included Nagarjuna, Sathyaraj, Soubin Shahir, and Shruti Haasan.
Meanwhile, Kamal Haasan was last seen in Thug Life.