Superstar Rajinikanth completed 51 years in Indian cinema on August 15, marking the milestone with the cast and crew of his upcoming film, Dharman. A cake-cutting ceremony was held on the film’s sets in the presence of the actor, director Ashwath Marimuthu, and the production team .
August 15, 2026, marks the anniversary of Rajinikanth’s film debut. His first film, Apoorva Raagangal, was released on August 15, 1975 .
To commemorate the occasion, the production team shared a post from the sets with the message: ’51 YEARS. ONE NAME. ONE SUPERSTAR. Celebrating from the sets of DHARMAN’ .
Rajinikanth is currently shooting for Dharman, which marks his 173rd film . Directed by Ashwath Marimuthu, the film is produced by Kamal Haasan and R Mahendran under Raaj Kamal Films International and Turmeric Media .
The film features Simran Bagga and Raashii Khanna in key roles, alongside Yogi Babu . Simran is reuniting with Rajinikanth after their previous collaboration in Petta .
The technical team for Dharman includes Anirudh Ravichander as music composer, Niketh Bommireddy as cinematographer, and Pradeep E Ragav as editor . The action sequences are choreographed by the Anbariv duo .
Career Milestone and Legacy
Over the past five decades, Rajinikanth has become one of the most influential and celebrated figures in Indian cinema . Affectionately known as ‘Thalaiva’ (leader) by his fans, he has worked across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, and English-language films .
Rajinikanth initially appeared in supporting and antagonist roles before establishing himself as a leading man . His distinctive style and screen presence have left an indelible mark on the film industry .
Production Status and Future Projects
The makers have recently begun the second shooting schedule for Dharman . The film presents Rajinikanth in a unique avatar as a medical doctor forced to take on criminals .
Following the completion of Dharman, Rajinikanth will star in Jailer 2 . Directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, the action drama is expected to feature Mithun Chakraborty, Vidya Balan, SJ Suryah, and Suraj Venjaramoodu in key roles .
Mohanlal and Shiva Rajkumar are expected to reprise their cameo appearances from the first film, while Hrithik Roshan is also expected to make a special appearance . Jailer 2 is slated for release in theatres on October 15, 2026 .
