Rajinikanth and Ram Pothineni Set for an Intriguing Face-Off in Dharman
Rajinikanth’s upcoming film Dharman is attracting increasing attention as new details about its cast and characters emerge. The Ashwath Marimuthu directorial is now reportedly set to feature Telugu actor Ram Pothineni in a significant role opposite the Superstar.
According to the latest reports, Ram is expected to portray a character with negative shades, potentially creating a strong dramatic conflict with Rajinikanth’s character. However, the exact nature of his role has not been officially revealed by the filmmakers, so reports describing him specifically as the full-fledged antagonist should be treated as unconfirmed.
Ram Pothineni’s Role Adds Curiosity
Ram Pothineni is primarily known for his energetic performances as a leading actor in Telugu cinema. A role with darker shades alongside Rajinikanth would therefore represent a noticeable change in presentation.
Earlier reports suggested that Ram could play Rajinikanth’s son-in-law and become an important source of conflict in the story. Recent reports continue to connect him with the project, but the makers have not publicly detailed his character.
The speculation gained additional attention after actress Raashii Khanna shared and later deleted a behind-the-scenes image that appeared to feature herself with Rajinikanth and Ram. The incident further strengthened reports that Ram is part of the film.
Rajinikanth’s Dharman Is Taking Shape
Dharman is being directed by Ashwath Marimuthu, who previously made Oh My Kadavule and Dragon. The film is being produced by Kamal Haasan's Raaj Kamal Films International, along with R Mahendran of Turmeric Media.
The project has already moved through multiple production schedules. Ashwath recently announced the beginning of the third schedule, sharing a glimpse featuring Rajinikanth and Raashii Khanna.
The cast also includes Simran, Raashii Khanna and Yogi Babu, while Anirudh Ravichander is composing the music.
A Family Story With Action and Thriller Elements
Director Ashwath Marimuthu has previously described Dharman as a family-oriented thriller with a larger-than-life approach. He also indicated that the film draws inspiration from the mass appeal of Padayappa and the investigative thriller qualities associated with Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu.
That combination could allow the film to move beyond a straightforward action entertainer. Family relationships, personal conflicts and suspense may all play important roles in the narrative.
If Ram is indeed playing a character connected closely to Rajinikanth's family, his reported negative shades could become an important part of the emotional conflict rather than simply serving as a conventional villain.
Why Ram’s Character Could Be Important
The pairing of Rajinikanth and Ram Pothineni gives the film an interesting generational contrast. Rajinikanth brings decades of experience and an established mass-screen image, while Ram is known for his youthful energy and commercial Telugu films.
A confrontation between the two could therefore provide Dharman with a different dynamic. The impact, however, will ultimately depend on how much importance the screenplay gives Ram's character.
For now, viewers should distinguish between reported casting details and officially confirmed character information. While Ram's involvement has received increasing confirmation through recent developments, the precise details of his role remain under wraps.
Dharman Targets a Big-Screen Release
The film is currently in production, with reports indicating that the makers are considering a Sankranti 2027 theatrical release. If that plan materialises, Dharman could arrive during one of the busiest periods in the South Indian film calendar.
With Rajinikanth leading the film, Kamal Haasan backing the project, Anirudh handling the music and Ashwath Marimuthu directing, the movie already has several major names attached to it.
The addition of Ram Pothineni gives the project another point of interest. Until the filmmakers reveal his character officially, however, the exact nature of the Rajinikanth-Ram conflict remains one of Dharman's biggest unanswered questions.
