Rift between Rajinikanth and Dharman director Ashwath? Actor's team breaks silence

Rajinikanth's team has dismissed speculation about a fallout between the superstar and Dharman director Ashwath Marimuthu, insisting that the actor is enjoying his collaboration with the filmmaker. The clarification comes amid online claims of tension on the sets of the upcoming film, which marks Rajinikanth's next project with Kamal Haasan as producer.A now-deleted post on X alleged that disagreements between Rajinikanth and Ashwath had created an uncomfortable atmosphere during filming. The claim circulated online, drawing attention from fans eager to learn more about the project. However, no evidence was provided to substantiate the allegations.Rajinikanth's manager subsequently refuted the claims, citing personal observations of the shoot. In a post written in Tamil, the representative said the reports were entirely false and that Rajinikanth had appeared comfortable and happy while working with Ashwath. The team member also described the film's progress as smooth, fast-paced and positive, crediting the director's energetic approach.The project has undergone several changes since Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan first began teasing their collaboration around the release of Coolie last year. In November 2025, the makers announced that Sundar C would direct the film, with Kamal backing it. However, the filmmaker withdrew from the project shortly afterwards, citing circumstances that could not be avoided. Cibi Chakaravarthi was subsequently named as the director in January 2026. After months of speculation surrounding the production, the makers revealed the title Dharman in June and confirmed Ashwath Marimuthu as the filmmaker.At the title announcement, Rajinikanth explained that Sundar C had left because of other professional commitments, while Cibi's version of the film would require a substantial investment of time and money. The film is now scheduled to reach theatres in January 2027. Simran, Raashii Khanna and Yogi Babu are part of the cast. Images reportedly leaked from the sets have also fuelled speculation that Ram Pothineni and Sreeleela could feature in the project, although the makers have not officially confirmed their involvement.The film's first-look poster offered a glimpse of Rajinikanth in blue medical scrubs, holding a bloodied scalpel. Further details about the story remain under wraps.Rajinikanth's next release is Jailer 2Before Dharman reaches theatres, Rajinikanth will return as Muthuvel Pandian in Nelson Dilipkumar's Jailer 2, which is scheduled for release on October 15.Ramya Krishnan, Yogi Babu and Mirnaa reprise their roles in the sequel, while Mohanlal, Shiva Rajkumar and Jackie Shroff return in cameo appearances. The new additions include Vidya Balan, SJ Suryah, Mithun Chakraborty, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Anna Rajan and Jatin Sarna.- Ends