Superstar Rajinikanth's upcoming film Dharman has moved another step closer to completion. Director Ashwath Marimuthu announced on social media that the unit has wrapped up its third schedule, writing, "3rd schedule Wrapped ! #Dharman."
The update comes a day after actress Raashii Khanna, who plays a pivotal role, shared pictures from the film's Mysuru schedule, including one with Rajinikanth and Telugu actor Ram Pothineni.
Raashii's post offered a rare glimpse behind the scenes. "A little glimpse into the world I have been living in for a while now in Mysore. Early morning workouts with Rajini sir and Ram, because apparently the day starts before the day starts. A little temple hopping, a little wandering, some UNO and lots of laughter. And yes, the Mysore dosa deserved its own moment. #dharman," she wrote.
IANS had earlier reported that the Mysuru schedule was planned for around 10 days, after a shooting session in Chennai.
How the Shoot Has Moved So Far
| Date | Milestone |
|---|
| June 24, 2026 | Title Dharman and first look unveiled |
| June 25, 2026 | Filming begins |
| August 13, 2026 | Second schedule begins |
| September 4, 2026 | Second schedule wrapped |
| September 16, 2026 | Third schedule begins |
| September 30, 2026 | Third schedule wrapped |
Why It Matters: A Film That Nearly Didn't Find Its Director
The steady pace stands out given the project's bumpy start. Sundar C was first announced as director in November last year but exited due to "unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances". Cibi Chakravarthi was chosen next and had reportedly started pre-production, but he too dropped out before Ashwath Marimuthu, known for Oh My Kadavule and Dragon, came on board.
Since then, the film has moved quickly. Marimuthu has said the shoot will be over in October 2026, adding, "Rajinikanth sir is in a Gen-Z vibe, and the film will be a very likeable one."
"Like Having a Child on the Sets"
At an event in Chennai, the director spoke about working with the superstar. "I am now comfortable working with Thalaivar. I was very scared initially. I have worked with Ashok Selvan, then Pradeep and after that, I started working with Thalaivar. But I have realised nothing has changed. That is because Rajinikanth's work ethics is so pure and amazing. It is like having a child on the sets. Even after 50 years, he is so excited and so full of energy."
He has also described the film as an experience comparable to a blend of Padayappa and Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu, combining emotional storytelling with commercial action.
The Deadly Doctor
Rajinikanth plays a doctor who takes on criminals. The title poster showed him in an operation theatre holding a scalpel, with one leg placed over the body of a slain rowdy-sheeter. A clip from the second schedule showed him as a senior medical faculty member lecturing junior doctors, with the makers calling him "The deadly doctor".
Announcing the title, Kamal Haasan had said, "Dharmame vellum! (Only Dharma will win)."
A Rajini–Kamal Collaboration
The film is produced by Kamal Haasan and R Mahendran, and co-produced by S Disney, under Raaj Kamal Films International. The two stars have acted together in several films in the past, but this time Kamal is working with his longtime friend as a producer.
The cast includes Simran and Raashii Khanna, with Simran reuniting with Rajinikanth after Petta (2019). Anirudh composes the music, Niketh Bommi handles cinematography, and Pradeep E Raghav is the editor.
What Comes Next
Rajinikanth has already completed his portions for Nelson Dilipkumar's Jailer 2, which releases on October 15, 2026, and has shifted his full focus to Dharman. With one more month of shooting planned, fans can expect the next big Dharman update once the final schedule wraps. The film's release is rumoured to be during Pongal next year, though the makers have not officially confirmed a date.
With inputs from IANS.
