Recently, we reported about producer Raaj Kamal Films International hiring Don fame Cibi Chakravarthi as the director for Rajinikanth's 173rd film. Earlier this Thursday, the makers of the film, tentatively titled Thalaivar 173, shared a still featuring its cast and crew and teased an update about its production. In the caption, they wrote, "Arambikalama," referencing the popular catchphrase by Kamal's character in 2022's Vikram and suggesting that preproduction on the film is over and that they are soon commencing principal photography.
As reported earlier, Kamal is producing the film with R Mahendran under their banner Raaj Kamal Films International. In the latest update, director Cibi Chakravarthi can be seen handing over what is speculated to be a bound script for Thalaivar 173 to Mahendran.
Initially, Sundar C was roped in as the director for the film, but the filmmaker pulled out of the project, citing "unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances".
At the time, reports suggested that Rajinikanth was not impressed by Sundar C's screenplay for the film. Later, Kamal suggested that he wanted a script that suits the superstar's star power.
Eventually, the producer announced Cibi as the film's director. At the time, they used a Pongal 2027 hashtag, suggesting their plan to release the film in the festival season. Even with the latest update, they used the same hashtag, further reinforcing it as their planned release window.
On the technical front, the movie has composer Anirudh, who reunites with the superstar after collaborations on films such as Petta (2019), Darbar (2020), Jailer (2023), Vettaiyan (2024), and Coolie (2025). It is worth noting that he is also the composer for Rajinikanth's upcoming Jailer sequel, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar.
Coming back to Thalaivar 173, the makers are yet to reveal any plot specifics. However, recently, they announced the tagline of the film, "Every family has a hero," hinting at a family entertainer.
