The production team behind Superstar Rajinikanth's highly anticipated film 'Dharman' released a behind-the-scenes making video on Thursday, 25 June, offering fans their first glimpse into how the iconic first look of the Thalaivar was conceived and executed. Directed by Aswath Marimuthu and produced by Raaj Kamal Films International (RKFI), the film has already generated considerable buzz across Tamil cinema circles.

What the Making Video Revealed

RKFI shared the making video on its X (formerly Twitter) timeline with the caption: 'THE OG SWAG. #Dharman. The Making of the First Look.' The clip offered a rare peek behind the curtain, showing the array of accessories laid out for Rajinikanth to select from. It also captured director Aswath Marimuthu personally demonstrating the exact pose he envisioned for the Superstar.

Among the most talked-about moments in the video was the appearance of Kamal Haasan — actor, producer, and parliamentarian — accompanying Rajinikanth on set, with the two legends of Tamil cinema seen exchanging warm pleasantries. The visual of these two icons together has since gone viral among fans.

Title Announcement and What the Poster Suggests

Just a day earlier, on Wednesday, 24 June, RKFI officially revealed the film's title as 'Dharman'. Kamal Haasan announced the title on his own X timeline, sharing the title poster with the message: 'Dharmame vellum! (Dharma will only win) #Dharman #Thalaivar173 #SuperstarRajinikanth.'

The title poster itself sparked widespread speculation: it depicted Rajinikanth in an operation theatre, holding a scalpel, with one foot placed over the body of a slain rowdy sheeter. The imagery lends credence to long-circulating rumours that the Superstar will play a doctor in the film — a role unlike most in his recent filmography. The title announcement coincided with a grand pooja ceremony marking the film's formal launch.

A Film That Has Seen Multiple Directors

'Dharman' has had a turbulent pre-production journey. Kamal Haasan had originally described the project as a magnum opus, with celebrated director Sundar C attached to helm it. However, Sundar C opted out unexpectedly. Director Cibi Chakravarthy was subsequently announced as the replacement, but industry sources indicated he too moved on from the project.

Rumours then pointed to Aswath Marimuthu — known for emotionally resonant Tamil dramas — as the frontrunner. An RKFI birthday greeting video for the director, which carried phrases like 'Hit 'em up' and 'give them a fun ride', had fuelled fan speculation before the official confirmation on Wednesday. This makes Aswath Marimuthu the third director associated with #Thalaivar173.

The Creative Team Behind Dharman

The film boasts a formidable technical crew. Music will be composed by Anirudh Ravichander, one of Tamil cinema's most sought-after composers. Cinematography is handled by Niketh Bommi, with editing by Pradeep E Raghav. The action sequences will be choreographed by the National Award-winning stunt duo Anbariv. The film is being produced by Kamal Haasan and R Mahendran, with S Disney serving as co-producer.

What Comes Next

With the title locked, the first look unveiled, and the formal launch complete, 'Dharman' is now expected to move into full-scale production. No release date has been announced yet, but given the scale of the project and the star power involved, the film is already among the most-watched Tamil productions in the pipeline. The combination of Rajinikanth in a potentially unconventional role and Anirudh's music has set expectations high across the industry.