Dharman: Rajinikanth begins shooting for Ashwath Marimuthu film, new poster out

The makers of Dharman unveiled a new Rajinikanth poster as shooting began on Thursday. The new update regarding the film to build anticipation among the fans.

In Short

• Rajinikanth began Dharman shooting
• The latest poster hints Rajinikanth may play a doctor-like character
• Makers used Kaali's famed dialogue, nodding to Mullum Malarum nostalgia

A day after unveiling the title and first-look poster of Dharman, the makers shared another glimpse of Rajinikanth's character from the film as shooting officially commenced on Thursday.

The new poster features the 75-year-old actor holding a doctor's coat with a stethoscope draped around his neck, hinting at his role in the film. Sharing the image on social media, the makers wrote, "Swag is his Signature. Ketta Paiyan Sir. Dharman shoot begins."

Take a look at the poster here:

The phrase 'Ketta Paiyan Sir' appears to be a tribute to one of Rajinikanth's most iconic dialogues from Mullum Malarum, where his character Kaali famously says, "Ketta Paiyan Sir Indha Kaali" (This Kaali is a bad boy).

Directed by Ashwath Marimuthu and produced by Kamal Haasan, Dharman marks the 173rd film of Rajinikanth's illustrious career. The film stars Simran as the female lead, reuniting with the superstar after Petta, and also features Raashii Khanna in a key role.

On the technical side, the film features music by Anirudh, action choreography by Anbariv, cinematography by Niketh Bommi, editing by Pradeep E Ragav, and production design by Karthik Rajkumar.

Although the makers have remained tight-lipped about the film's plot, excitement around Dharman continues to grow. The secrecy surrounding its story, Rajinikanth's role, and the film's universe has only fuelled curiosity among fans.

Earlier, speaking at the film's launch event on June 24, the filmmaker described the project as a mix of two of his favourite films starring Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, hinting at a story that combines mass entertainment with thriller-style storytelling.

He described Dharman as a family-oriented thriller featuring a larger-than-life protagonist, suggesting a character that leans more towards mass entertainment than a straightforward biographical inspiration.

The project has also seen a few changes since it was first announced in 2025. Initially, Dharman was set to be directed by Sundar C, with the makers officially confirming his association with the film. However, the filmmaker later exited the project, citing "unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances," paving the way for Ashwath Marimuthu to take over the directorial reins.

- Ends