Why Did Sundar C Back Out Of Rajinikanth-Kamal Haasan Film Thalaivar 173? Director Breaks Silence
Sanjeev Kumar | May 3, 2026 11:23 AM CST
Thalaiavar 173, the film which is set to bring Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan together, was announced in November last year, scheduled for release around Pongal 2027. Sundar C was initially set to direct the project.
However, just days after the announcement, the director issued a statement saying he had opted out, citing unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances. Now, several months later, Sundar C has opened up about his decision, explaining the reasons behind stepping away from the big film. The actor-director also went on to speak about his working style and why this film didn't work in his favour.
Sundar C Breaks Silence On Exit From Thalaivar 173
In an interaction with Behindwoods, shared why he chose to leave the project soon after its announcement. He said that it was too much pressure for him. For the past 16 years, he had made films the way he wanted, based on what he felt would work with the audience. However, he felt he did not have the capacity to make people understand this during production.
He also mentioned that he did not know how to narrate a film effectively and that he would to get compromised easily without putting up a fight. He mentioned that if he were to take on a big film like this, it would not be entirely his decisions. He felt the pressure and realised he could not stay true to the project or the people involved, which is why he chose to step away at the very beginning stage itself.
About Sundar C's upcoming films
Sundar C was last seen in Gangers (2025) and is currently filming Purushan, starring Vishal and Tamannaah Bhatia. The film marks another collaboration after Aambala and Madha Gaja Raja. Produced by Benzz Media and presented by Khushbu Sundar, the project features music by Hiphop Tamizha and revolves around a husband hiding a violent side.
About Thalaivar 173
He also mentioned that he did not know how to narrate a film effectively and that he would to get compromised easily without putting up a fight. He mentioned that if he were to take on a big film like this, it would not be entirely his decisions. He felt the pressure and realised he could not stay true to the project or the people involved, which is why he chose to step away at the very beginning stage itself.
About Sundar C's upcoming films
Sundar C was last seen in Gangers (2025) and is currently filming Purushan, starring Vishal and Tamannaah Bhatia. The film marks another collaboration after Aambala and Madha Gaja Raja. Produced by Benzz Media and presented by Khushbu Sundar, the project features music by Hiphop Tamizha and revolves around a husband hiding a violent side.
About Thalaivar 173
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