CHENNAI, 17 November 2025: Just weeks after the blockbuster announcement of ‘Thalaivar 173’—the cinematic reunion of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan—the project has faced an unexpected hurdle: the exit of director Sundar C. Kamal Haasan, who is producing the film under Raaj Kamal Films International (RKFI), has now broken his silence on the matter, clarifying the situation and addressing circulating rumours.
Kamal Haasan confirmed that Sundar C will no longer be directing the film. The producer stressed that the priority remains finding the “right script” that fully justifies the historical magnitude of bringing Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan together.
The Real Reason Behind the Exit
Kamal Haasan’s statement firmly put an end to speculative rumours that the parting was due to disagreements or creative clashes.
- Script Alignment: Kamal Haasan stated the project is now searching for a new director because the creative team needs a story that “my star [Rajinikanth] likes.” This implies that while Sundar C’s vision was appreciated, the script developed may not have been the perfect fit for the ambitious expectations surrounding Rajinikanth’s role in this historic venture.
- Focus on Rajinikanth: The producer emphasized the need to pick a script that honours Rajinikanth’s stature, demonstrating that the priority is securing a blockbuster narrative that fully leverages the star’s unique appeal.
Adding to the clarity, actress and filmmaker Khushbu, who is also the wife of Sundar C, publicly slammed the baseless rumours suggesting her husband had ‘walked out,’ affirming that the decision was a professional and mutual one related to creative direction.
The Search for a New Director
With Sundar C’s departure, the focus is now squarely on the hunt for a new director capable of crafting the perfect script. Reports are already circulating regarding potential candidates, including speculation about whether actor-director Dhanush might step up to direct his superstar father-in-law. Kamal Haasan confirmed that RKFI is actively seeking a creative vision that can deliver the cinematic magic expected from this momentous collaboration.
