Rajinikanth Said Coolie Reminded Him of Thalapathi, Reveals Lokesh Kanagaraj
Director Lokesh Kanagaraj recently opened up about a heartfelt moment with Superstar Rajinikanth during the dubbing sessions of their upcoming action drama Coolie. The film, which is currently in post-production, has its trailer slated for release on August 2, 2025.
Following the release of Coolie’s promo, fans quickly drew comparisons between Rajinikanth’s silhouette against the sunset and a similar iconic visual from Thalapathi (1991), the Mani Ratnam classic. Lokesh, instead of brushing off the comparison, warmly embraced it.
“Thalapathi is my all-time favorite in Rajinikanth sir’s career,” said Lokesh. “I’ve always admired the emotional depth in that story, and while writing Coolie, I wanted to capture a similar space.”
In a moment that touched the director, Rajinikanth himself acknowledged the similarity.
“After watching Coolie in the dubbing studio, Rajini sir hugged me and said, ‘It looked like Thalapathi for me.’ That one line stayed with me,” Lokesh recalled.
The director clarified he never intended to imitate Mani Ratnam’s storytelling, but only hoped to echo the emotional gravitas that Thalapathi carried. “Hearing that from Rajini sir felt like a small personal victory,” he added.
Coolie is Lokesh Kanagaraj’s first-ever collaboration with Rajinikanth, and promises a thrilling mix of mass action and emotional intensity—a signature combination that fans are eager to witness.
