Chennai: In what fans are calling a “once-in-a-lifetime cinematic event,” Tamil cinema legends Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan are reuniting on screen after nearly five decades.

The film, tentatively titled 'Thalaivar 173', will be directed by Sundar C and produced under Raaj Kamal Films International (RKFI), with Red Giant Movies releasing it during Pongal 2027.

The announcement was made by RKFI through an official press release on Tuesday, celebrating not just the film but also “five decades of friendship and brotherhood” between the two megastars.

“Commemorating 44 years of Raaj Kamal Films International, #Thalaivar173 unites Superstar Rajinikanth’s magnetic screen presence with Sundar C’s direction, in a landmark production envisioned by Kamal Haasan and R. Mahendran,” the statement read.

This will be the first Rajini-Kamal collaboration in 46 years, marking a historic reunion since their last on-screen appearance in ‘Ninaithale Inikkum’ (1979).

The project also brings Sundar C full circle — he previously directed Rajinikanth in the blockbuster Arunachalam and Kamal Haasan in the cult classic ‘Anbe Sivam’ (2003).

Rumours about a possible collaboration had been swirling since Coolie, Rajinikanth’s recent outing with Lokesh Kanagaraj.

Haasan had confirmed in September at the NEXA SIIMA Awards 2025 that the project was in development, quipping humorously, “They kept splitting a biscuit and giving us only half each… Now we’re happy to share one again.”

Sundar C, whose filmography includes Ullathai Allitha, Kalakalappu, and Aranmanai, is currently finishing ‘Mookuthi Amman 2’ starring Nayanthara before stepping into what is likely to be the most anticipated Tamil film of the decade.

With the Superstar and Ulaganayagan finally joining forces, 'Thalaivar 173' promises to be more than just a movie — it’s a celebration of Tamil cinema’s golden legacy.