Nayanthara is officially part of “Dharman.” Raaj Kamal Films International teased a new cast member on Sunday with a “some eyes say it all” message, and director Ashwath Marimuthu then welcomed her with a social media post. The makers also shared a poster of the silhouettes of Rajinikanth and Nayanthara standing face to face in front of a large window. telanganatodayindiatvnews
The pair last appeared together in “Annaatthe,” released on November 4, 2021. They have also shared the screen in “Chandramukhi” (2005), “Kuselan” (2008) and “Darbar” (2020). One outlet calls “Dharman” their sixth collaboration, while the four films listed here would make it their fifth, so the exact count is unconfirmed. Wikipediaonlykollywood
What We Know About the Film
“Dharman” is written and directed by Ashwath Marimuthu, was earlier referred to as Thalaivar 173, and is a Tamil medical drama. Rajinikanth plays a doctor. The project was announced in June 2026, and the first-look poster was unveiled by Kamal Haasan on June 24. The film has completed its third shooting schedule and features Raashii Khanna in a key role. The cast reportedly includes Simran, Sreeleela and Ram Pothineni. Ashwath said recently that the shoot will be completed by October 2026, and described a “Gen-Z vibe” with music by Anirudh and action by Anbariv. The source text says Niketh Bommireddy handles cinematography; I could not confirm this independently. Nayanthara to reunite with Rajinikanth after 5 years in Kamal Haasan-backed Dharman; poster out - India TV News +4
Ashwath previously directed “Oh My Kadavule” and “Dragon,” and this is his first film with Rajinikanth.
Her Role
The source text claims Nayanthara’s character is crucial and appears in several parts of the film. I found no confirmation from the makers, who have revealed little about the story. Reports note that Sreeleela and Raashii Khanna are not paired romantically with Rajinikanth, while the presence of Simran and Nayanthara has generated interest. That suggests the casting is designed to anchor the film’s emotional side, but this is inference, not a makers’ statement. telugucinema
Why It Matters
Rajinikanth’s pairing with Nayanthara is among Tamil cinema’s most familiar, and a reunion after five years adds to the film’s pull. Kamal Haasan producing a Rajinikanth film also brings two of the industry’s biggest names together. A medical drama is a change from the action-led vehicles of recent years, and Rajinikanth is coming off a hit with “Jailer 2,” which the source text reports crossed ₹600 crore worldwide. I could not verify the box office figure.
What Comes Next
The makers have not announced a release date. Audiences can expect more cast reveals, a teaser and a release window as the shoot nears completion. Bolly Orbit will update this report as developments emerge.