Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai
Chennai, Nov 14: The highly anticipated reunion of Tamil cinema legends Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan has hit an unexpected hurdle even before the cameras could roll. Director Sundar C, who was initially onboard to helm Thalaivar 173, has officially stepped away from the project, citing “unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances.”
The announcement came through an official statement shared by his wife, Khushbu Sundar, on social media. Although the post was deleted shortly after, screenshots of the statement have since gone viral on X.
“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 Thalaivar 173,” the director said in his statement.
Reflecting on his long-standing association with the two icons, Sundar C added, “In life, there are moments when we must follow the path laid out for us, even if it diverges from our dreams. My association with these two icons goes back a long way, and I will always hold them in the highest regard. The special moments we have shared over the past few days will be cherished forever.”
He also expressed heartfelt apologies to both Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, noting that he would continue to seek their “expert guidance” and remain inspired by their journey. “Please accept my sincere apologies if this news has disappointed those who had eagerly anticipated this venture,” he wrote.
The filmmaker reassured fans that he would continue creating content that keeps their “spirits high” and thanked them for their unwavering support.
Meanwhile, excitement around the Rajinikanth–Kamal Haasan collaboration had been mounting for months, with both actors dropping hints even before the release of Coolie. Kamal Haasan, who was last seen in Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life, is currently shooting for an upcoming project yet to be officially announced. The production house has not revealed who will take over the directorial responsibilities for Thalaivar 173.