Actors Simran and Raashii Khanna expressed their excitement about being part of the upcoming Rajinikanth-starrer Dharman (Thalaivar 173), produced by Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International at the film's launch event on Wednesday.
Simran, who previously shared screen space with Rajinikanth in Petta (2019), said she had been waiting for another opportunity to collaborate with the superstar.
"I am very happy," Simran said. "When I met Rajini sir after Petta, I told him that I wanted to do more films with him. I have waited for this opportunity for a very long time, and I am grateful that it has finally happened."
The actor thanked Raaj Kamal Films International, Kamal Haasan, Mahendran, and director Ashwath Marimuthu for bringing the project together.
"I don't really know what to say because I am overwhelmed and extremely happy. I would like to thank Kamal sir's Raaj Kamal Films International and Mahendran sir. It means a lot to me. I also thank Ashwath and the entire team. I am excited and ready to join the shoot," she added.
Simran also welcomed her co-star Raashii Khanna, saying she was looking forward to working with her on the film. For the uninitiated, Simran is reuniting with Rajinikanth after Petta (2019) and Kamal Haasan after Panchathanthiram (2002) and Pammal K Sambandam (2002).
Raashii Khanna echoed Simran's excitement and described the opportunity to work alongside Rajinikanth as a dream come true.
"I am very happy to be a part of this cast," Raashii said. "As Simran ma'am mentioned, I am equally excited to begin shooting and share screen space with Rajini sir." Referring to director Ashwath Marimuthu's earlier remarks, Raashii said that the desire to work with Rajinikanth extends beyond filmmakers.
"Ashwath said it is every filmmaker's dream to work with Rajini sir. I believe it is also a massive dream for every actor. Getting the opportunity to share screen space with him is truly special," she said.
Raashii also expressed her gratitude to Kamal Haasan and Raaj Kamal Films International for welcoming her into the project, adding that she felt honoured to be working under the banner of one of Indian cinema's most celebrated icons.
The first look of Dharman was released on Wednesday which sees Rajinikanth in a stylish avatar donning a doctor's suit, killing a man with a surgical equipment. The film's tagline reads, 'The Deadly Doctor'.
The rest of the cast, plot and a release date is yet to be revealed. The film is set to go on floors from Thursday, June 25.