The ambiguity surrounding the mystery director who is set to helm Rajinikanth's much-anticipated Thalaivar 173, backed by Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International seems to have been finally resolved. It is well-known that Sundar C was first announced as the film's director, but he backed out of the project stating that the "pressure was overwhelming". Later, Don filmmaker Cibi Chakravarthi was chosen to make it. A first look was announced earlier this year, but with no update about the film since then, there was major speculations about him too exiting the film.

Later, Oh My Kadavule and Dragon filmmaker Ashwath Marimuthu's name emerged on social media circles. The rumour seems to have come true as RKFI shared a swanky and fun birthday video for the director, fueling massive speculations around the Pongal 2027 project he once pitched to Rajinikanth. However, an official announcement is awaited.

Earlier, Ashwath recalled his narration session with Rajinikanth before Silambarasan's STR 51. "I started working on another script for Rajinikanth sir. I worked on it for a month and then narrated it to sir. He loved it. During the interval block, he even forgot to have lunch and was so keen on finishing the narration. He called my script extraordinary and appreciated the story's villain. We even discussed casting for the villain. I almost got the opportunity to direct the film, but due to several other reasons, it didn't materialise then. Even RKFI heard the story but couldn't take it up. The film will happen in the future, for sure," he said.

It is also not yet revealed if STR 51 would be completed before the Rajinikanth project if it is confirmed. A fantasy rom-com, STR 51, was announced last year with a glimpse video that showed Silambarasan playing 'God of Love'. Following Arasan, Ashwath will start production for STR 51. The makers are yet to reveal the film's title, but the Oh My Kadavule filmmaker recently said that it would begin with 'I'. Details about the plot and extended cast of STR 51 have been kept under wraps.