Is Rukmini Vasanth Joining Rajinikanth's Dharman?

Superstar Rajinikanth's Dharman is getting bigger with every update. The upcoming commercial entertainer, directed by Ashwath Marimuthu and produced by Ulaganayagan Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International , has already created massive excitement, and now reports suggest that Kannada actress Rukmini Vasanth is being considered for a crucial role in the film.

Although the makers are yet to officially confirm Rukmini Vasanth's inclusion, the possibility of her joining the cast has added another layer of anticipation around the project. If finalised, she will become part of an already impressive lineup featuring Rajinikanth, Simran, Raashii Khanna, and Yogi Babu .

Earlier known as Thalaivar 173 , the film was officially titled Dharman with a striking first look poster that introduced Rajinikanth in a never before seen avatar. The poster showed the superstar as a mysterious doctor wearing surgical attire and holding a blood stained scalpel, with the tagline “The Deadly Doctor” , instantly grabbing attention among fans.

The first look created a wave of discussions online, with fans praising Rajinikanth's intense makeover while some questioned the poster design. The makers later released a behind the scenes glimpse to show how the look was actually created, putting an end to speculation surrounding the poster.

Directed by Ashwath Marimuthu , known for films like Oh My Kadavule and Dragon , Dharman is said to be a commercial entertainer blending family emotions with thriller elements. The director has reportedly designed the film to showcase Rajinikanth's trademark style while bringing a fresh narrative approach.

The project also marks another major collaboration between Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, two of Tamil cinema's biggest icons. Kamal Haasan is backing the film under Raaj Kamal Films International , making it one of the most closely watched Tamil projects currently in production.

The film's journey to the floors was not without changes. Before Ashwath Marimuthu came on board, multiple directors were reportedly linked with the project at different stages, including Sundar C and Cibi Chakravarthy , before the final team was locked. Rajinikanth himself spoke about the changes during the film's launch and expressed confidence in Ashwath's vision.

Adding further strength to the technical team, Anirudh Ravichander is composing the music, while Niketh Bommi handles cinematography, Pradeep E Ragav is the editor, and action choreography is being handled by popular stunt duo Anbariv .