Lokesh Kanagaraj Addresses Missed Rajinikanth-Kamal Haasan Collaboration and Future Projects
Renowned filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj finds himself at a pivotal moment in his illustrious career, balancing multiple ambitious ventures while addressing long-standing industry questions. The director recently shared candid insights about his current professional trajectory, including his much-anticipated acting debut and directorial commitments.
Why the Historic Rajinikanth-Kamal Haasan Film Never Materialized
During a recent press interaction, Lokesh Kanagaraj finally addressed the elephant in the room: why the highly anticipated collaboration between Tamil cinema legends Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan never came to fruition under his direction. The director revealed that the concept emerged around the release of Coolie, when both superstars approached him with the groundbreaking idea.
"I felt incredibly privileged when they proposed I direct this historic film," Kanagaraj confessed. "I immediately developed a script and personally narrated it to both icons, who responded positively to the concept."
However, the director made a surprising revelation about why he ultimately stepped away from what could have been a cinematic milestone. "Both Rajinikanth sir and Kamal Haasan sir have established distinct personas in action cinema," he explained. "Creating something that would satisfy both their unique styles while maintaining my directorial vision proved challenging. I believe in being honest about my capabilities rather than attempting something beyond my creative comfort zone."
Current Professional Commitments and Upcoming Ventures
Kanagaraj's professional calendar appears meticulously planned with several high-profile projects. The director confirmed he will first make his acting debut in Arun Matheswaran's film DC, marking a significant career diversification.
Following this, he will focus entirely on directing a major project featuring Telugu superstar Allu Arjun. This commitment stems from professional obligations to a production house that provided him an advance nearly six years ago.
"Fulfilling this longstanding commitment has paved the way for my collaboration with Allu Arjun," the director stated, emphasizing his dedication to honoring professional agreements regardless of timeline.
Clarifying the Lokesh Cinematic Universe Future
Addressing widespread speculation about the conclusion of his acclaimed Lokesh Cinematic Universe, Kanagaraj firmly dismissed what he called "baseless claims" about the franchise ending. Instead, he outlined a clear roadmap for LCU's expansion.
The director confirmed his immediate lineup includes three highly anticipated sequels:
- Kaithi 2 - The follow-up to his critically acclaimed 2019 action thriller
- Vikram 2 - Continuing the Kamal Haasan-starring universe expansion
- Rolex - A new installment in the interconnected franchise
"The LCU remains very much alive," Kanagaraj asserted. "Once I complete the Allu Arjun project, I will return to expanding the cinematic universe with these confirmed films. Each will contribute to the larger narrative I've been building across multiple productions."
The director's revelations provide unprecedented clarity about his creative priorities and professional ethics. By openly discussing both missed opportunities and future plans, Kanagaraj demonstrates a thoughtful approach to career management in India's competitive film industry.
His decision to prioritize creative integrity over what could have been a commercially monumental project reflects a director committed to artistic authenticity. Meanwhile, his packed schedule confirms Kanagaraj remains one of Indian cinema's most in-demand filmmakers, balancing franchise expansion with new collaborations across linguistic boundaries.
