Director Ashwath Marimuthu recently created a buzz online after reports surfaced that he had narrated a story to Rajinikanth for Thalaivar173. However, the director himself has confirmed that his next film will be the Silambarasan TR starrer STR51.

Dragon director Ashwath Marimuthu to next direct Simbu in STR51

Director Ashwath Marimuthu was recently seen alongside other filmmakers during a round table interview with Sudhir Srinivasan. During the interaction, the Oh My Kadavule director revealed that he is currently writing the screenplay for his next project, which will be a Simbu starrer tentatively titled STR51.

The director said, “No matter who asks, the answer right now is the same, Simbu. I am currently writing the script for the film. He is shooting for Vetrimaaran sir’s Arasan, and towards the end of that schedule, we will begin filming our movie in parallel. It will be released next year.”

For those unaware, early speculation suggested that Ashwath was also in talks with Rajinikanth to helm his next project, tentatively titled Thalaivar173. The project was initially announced with director Sundar C at the helm, but due to prior commitments, the filmmaker opted out of the venture.

While an official update is expected to arrive by Pongal next year, speculation indicates that Parking fame Ramkumar Balakrishnan may direct the film. Interestingly, the filmmaker was initially supposed to collaborate with Simbu on a project as well.

Silambarasan TR’s work front

Silambarasan TR is currently filming his next movie, Arasan, directed by Vetrimaaran. The upcoming gangster action drama will be a spin-off set in the Vada Chennai cinematic universe. The director has confirmed that several characters from Vada Chennai will appear in the project.

While details about the plot remain under wraps, the movie will mark the first-ever collaboration between the actor and the director. Moreover, Anirudh Ravichander will compose the film’s music and background score.

Looking ahead, Simbu’s film with director Ashwath Marimuthu is touted to be a fantasy action romantic entertainer. His character is reportedly titled the God of Love, with the filmmaker emphasizing that the film will be in the vein of vintage STR movies.

Jana Nayagan, starring Thalapathy Vijay in the lead role, is slated for release on January 9, 2026, coinciding with Pongal next year. Ahead of the movie’s arrival on the big screen, it appears that the makers have finalized the trailer release date.

Jana Nayagan: When will Thalapathy Vijay’s final film trailer release?

According to a report by Lets Cinema, Jana Nayagan’s trailer is set to release on January 2, 2026. Initially, there was speculation that the trailer would drop online at midnight on January 1, 2026, to mark New Year’s Day. However, it now seems that fans may have to wait one more day, although an official confirmation is yet to be made.

Additionally, the report adds that Vijay’s final film will feature seven intense, violent action sequences. Previously, Leo was also known for its heavy action sequences.

More about Jana Nayagan

Jana Nayagan is an upcoming political action drama starring Thalapathy Vijay in the lead role. Alongside Pooja Hegde and Bobby Deol as co-stars, actors Mamitha Baiju, Priyamani, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Narain, and several others are set to play pivotal roles in the film.

Reportedly, Jana Nayagan follows the story of an ordinary man who becomes an unexpected symbol of resilience when a local injustice catches his attention and propels him into the public eye.

As his actions begin to inspire others, the former police officer evolves from a passive bystander into a reluctant leader. However, with the rise in power, he must also face growing threats while navigating ideals, dangers, and community expectations.

Earlier reports also suggested that the narrative would include the life of a young woman who plays a central role in the man’s journey. Additionally, speculation has indicated the presence of a Humans vs. AI element in the storyline. However, these remain unconfirmed reports for now.

Amid online buzz suggesting that the movie might be a partial remake of Nandamuri Balakrishna-starrer Bhagavanth Kesari, director H. Vinoth clarified the matter, stating that the film is a “100% Thalapathy” project.