Kaithi 2: Lokesh Kanagaraj-Karthi film delayed because of Rajinikanth-Kamal Haasan’s Thalaivar 173?

Lokesh Kanagaraj confirmed that he would be working on Karthi’s much-awaited film Kaithi 2 after AA 23. But was Kaithi 2 pushed because of the Rajinikanth-Kamal Hassan film, Thalaivar 173?

Lokesh Kanagaraj; Karthi in Kaithi

Popular filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj was at the receiving end of criticisms after he announced his project, AA23, with Telugu star Allu Arjun recently. The reason being that the new project would further cause the delay of the much-awaited Kaithi 2 from his Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU). But in a recent press meet, Lokesh confirmed that he would be working on Karthi’s much-awaited film Kaithi 2 after AA 23. But was Kaithi 2 pushed because of the Rajinikanth-Kamal Hassan film, Thalaivar 173? Here’s what Lokesh Kangaraj said…

Why was Kaithi 2 delayed

Kaithi is a 2019 Tamil film, starring actor Karthi in the lead role of a former prisoner. Helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, the film is the first part in his LCU and the delay of the sequel has upset fans. Lokesh Kanagaraj recently revealed that he was set to work on the Kaithi sequel after completing his much-talked-about film Coolie, starring Rajinikanth.

But then, the Tamil superstar and Kamal Haasan wanted him to make a film, that would feature both of them. As this was a huge opportunity, Lokesh decided to shift his focus to this ambitious project, Thalaivar 173, but it eventually did not materialize. Amid this, Karthi had also given his dates for another film, and Lokesh decided to work with Allu Arjun on AA23.

Also read: After Karthi's blunt answer on Kaithi 2 update, fans lose hope on Lokesh Kanagaraj's LCU; say its shelved, ‘scam’ by director

But the AA23 announcement had sparked rumours that Lokesh’s demand for a hefty amount as Kaithi 2 remuneration had got in the way of the project. But Lokesh dismissed these rumours and has now confirmed that he would be returning to his LCU after the Allu Arjun project, which is likely to begin in October 2026. So Kaithi 2 is likely to happen in 2027.

On the other hand, Thalaivar 173 brings together the biggest titans of Tamil cinema after three decades. Lokesh said he worked for 1.5 months on the script, but both Rajinikanth and Kamal were looking for a more light-hearted film, since their immediate projects were action-oriented. After Lokesh, Sundar C was set to direct the film, but he too stepped down, and now Cibi Chakravarthi would be helming the moving.

Apart from Kaithi, Kamal Haasan-led Vikram and Vijay's Leo are part of the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU). The upcoming film Benz is also part of LCU, but is not helmed by Lokesh. Directed by Bakkiyaraj Kannan, Benz features Malayalam actor Nivin Pauly as the villain.

Lokesh Cinematic Universe FAQs

Q. Which movie is part of LCU?

A. Tamil films Kaithi Vikram and Leo are part of Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU).

Q. Who is Rolex LCU?

A. Actor Suriya plays Rolex in LCU. His appearance comes in a post-credit scene in Vikram.

Q. What is Lokesh's next film?

A. Lokesh Kanagaraj is set to direct Allu Arjun in his next film, titled AA23.

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