Rajinikanth's hit 1999 film Padayappa was re-released to packed houses in theatres on the actor's 75th birthday in December last year. Thanks to strong nostalgic value associated with the original, the entertainer was met with massive success at the box office. Four months after its release, Rajinikanth met producer PL Thenappan who backed the film along with the actor, and gifted him a 5-sovereign gold chain.

Starring Ramya Krishnan and Soundarya as female leads, the film was directed by KS Ravikumar. Padayappa also featured Sivaji Ganesan, Radha Ravi, Nassar, Manivannan, and Abbas in key roles.

Produced by Rajinikanth's Arunachala Cine Creations with PL Thenappan as co-producer, the film continues to remain a favourite among Tamil fans for its strong storyline and screenplay, and also for AR Rahman's soundtrack and songs.

During the film's re-release, Rajinikanth, in a video address about his experience filming for Padayappa, shared that he is planning to make a sequel to the film from the point of view of Neelambari, who vows to avenge the 'injustice' caused to her. Further updates on the film are awaited.

Meanwhile, Rajinikanth had wrapped up filming for Jailer 2 a few days go. The Nelson-directorial will also see the return of Muthuvel Pandian's wife, played by Ramya Krishnan, and his daughter-in-law Mirnaa. The reprisal of Shivarajkumar's and Mohanlal's cameo appearances in the sequel has also been confirmed. New names added to the ensemble this time around include Jatin Sarna, Mithun Chakraborty, Santhanam, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Vijay Sethupathi, Meghana Raj Sarja and Anna Rajan. 

He will also star alongside Kamal Haasan in the much-anticipated KH x RK, also helmed by Nelson which sees the stars return on screen after four decades. Meanwhile, Kamal is also producing a film starring Rajinikanth and directed by Don fame Cibi Chakravarthy.