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Thalaivar 173: Sundar C out of Rajinikanth-Kamal Haasan project; ‘There are moments when we must follow...’ | read statement

Thalaivar 173: Sundar C, who was announced to helm the prestigious project, is no longer part of the project, as revealed by a now-deleted post by Khushbu Sundar

Anusha Sundar
Nov 13, 2025
Thalaivar 173: Sundar C out of Rajinikanth-Kamal Haasan project; ‘There are moments when we must follow path laid out for us’ | read statement
Team Thalaivar 173

It was only very recently that we had announced that Sundar C is that director who will be helming the reunion of stalwarts Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. Tentatively titled Thalaivar 173, which Kamal Haasan will produce and Rajinikanth will lead the project, there is some disappointing news for fans, with Sundar C stepping out of the project.

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Thalaivar 173: Sundar C steps down the Rajinikanth-Kamal Haasan project

After many years, Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan had announced their reunion. Thalaivar 173 was to be produced by Kamal Haasan’s home banner and Rajinikanth was the headline the project. The announcement was made only a few days ago, with director Sundar C set to helm the project. Fans were rejoicing over the announcement, given that Sundar C is known for helming blockbuster entertainers and had already given the hit film Arunachalam with Rajinikanth.

However, the shocking news that comes from the project is that Sundar C has stepped down. In a statement that was posted through the social media handles of actor and Sundar C’s wife, Khushboo Sundar, which now stands deleted, it confirmed Sundar C’s departure from the project.

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“Due to unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances, I have made the difficult decision to step back from the prestigious project Thalaivar 173. This venture…. Was indeed a dream come true for me (sic),” the statement said. It also mentioned, “In life, there are moments when we must follow the path laid out for us, even if it diverges from our dreams.”

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Sundar C apologises

Sundar C also apologised to the fans for disappointing them, given that many cheered for the collaboration. He also said that he will continue to seek guidance from the stalwarts. However, Sundar C did not reveal the exact reasons as to why he stepped down. Meanwhile, there has been no news or announcement from Kamal Haasan’s banner.

Thalaivar 173 was slated for release for Pongal 2027. Now that Sundar C is out of the picture, it is curious if the project will go forward with another director.

FAQs

Q. What is Sundar C movies in 2025?

A. Sundar C directed two films, Madha Gaja Raja and Gangers, which were released in 2025.

Q. Will Rajini and Kamal reunite?

A. Thalaivar 173 will have Rajinikanth starring in and Kamal Haasan as producer.

Q. What is Thalaivar 173 release date?

A. Thalaivar 173 will release for Pongal 2027.

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