June 24, 2026 will be remembered as a special day for Tamil cinema fans. The title and first look of Superstar Rajinikanth's 173rd film were officially unveiled as Dharman at a grand launch and pooja ceremony held at Raaj Kamal Films International's office in Chennai.

Produced by Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International and R. Mahendran, the film marks a historic collaboration between two of Indian cinema's biggest legends.

A 40-Year Promise Fulfilled

The biggest highlight of the event was Kamal Haasan's emotional speech.

Kamal revealed that nearly 40 years ago, during a flight to Bombay, he and Rajinikanth made a promise that one day they would work together on a film where one would produce and the other would star.

"That promise has finally been fulfilled today," Kamal said, receiving loud applause from those in attendance.

He also recalled their early struggles in the industry, saying that two young actors who once rested under a neem tree at AVM Studios had now come together to create this ambitious project.

Rajinikanth Reveals the Journey Behind Dharman

Rajinikanth spoke openly about how the project evolved over the years.

According to the Superstar, Kamal Haasan gave him complete freedom in choosing the story and director. Rajini admitted that this trust also brought immense responsibility.

The actor revealed that the project went through several stages and multiple directors before finally landing in the hands of Ashwath Marimuthu.

Rajinikanth explained that discussions were held with directors including K. S. Ravikumar, Sundar C and Cibi Chakravarthi before Ashwath Marimuthu was ultimately chosen to helm the project.

Calling it a "combined team effort aimed purely at success," Rajinikanth expressed confidence in the final team assembled for the film.

Ashwath Marimuthu Drops Exciting Hints

Director Ashwath Marimuthu shared the first interesting details about the movie.

According to the director, Dharman will be a family-oriented thriller packed with entertainment. He also revealed that Rajinikanth will be playing a doctor with swag, a character that immediately sparked excitement among fans.

Ashwath further teased that the film will carry shades and vibes reminiscent of Rajinikanth's Padayappa and Kamal Haasan's Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu, a combination that has generated huge curiosity among fans.

First Look Poster Creates Buzz

The first-look poster unveiled at the event instantly went viral on social media.

The poster presents Rajinikanth in a striking avatar dressed in medical scrubs, holding a blood-stained surgical weapon. The tagline "Dharmame Vellum" (Dharma Will Prevail) appears prominently, while the poster hints that Rajinikanth's character may be known as "The Deadly Doctor."

The intense visual suggests that Dharman could blend action, suspense and emotions in classic Superstar style.

Cast and Crew

The film features:

  • Rajinikanth
  • Simran
  • Raashii Khanna
  • Yogi Babu

Technical Team:

  • Director: Ashwath Marimuthu
  • Music: Anirudh Ravichander
  • Cinematography: Niketh Bommireddy
  • Editing: Pradeep E. Ragav
  • Action: Anbariv
  • Producers: Kamal Haasan & R. Mahendran

Rajini's Light-Hearted Moment

Rajinikanth also entertained the media with his trademark humour.

Referring to recent controversies surrounding his public comments, the Superstar joked that whenever he speaks, it somehow becomes an issue for someone. His candid remarks drew laughter from those present and once again showcased the simplicity and honesty that fans admire.

The Journey Begins

Following the pooja ceremony, filming officially commenced. With Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Ashwath Marimuthu and Anirudh joining forces, Dharman has already become one of the most anticipated Tamil films in production.

As the poster boldly declares:

"Dharmame Vellum!"

And fans everywhere will now be eagerly waiting to see what the Superstar has in store.