Telugu actor Ram Pothineni, popularly known as RaPo, is reportedly set to take on a negative role opposite superstar Rajinikanth in the upcoming action thriller Dharman. The film is said to be Rajinikanth’s 173rd movie and is being directed by Ashwath Marimuthu. The project is being produced under Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films banner. While details about the story are still limited, Dharman is expected to combine family drama with action and thriller elements.
According to reports, Rajinikanth and Simran will play an older couple in the film, while Ram Pothineni and Raashi Khanna are expected to portray a younger pair. This setup could create a family conflict between the two generations, with Ram’s character reportedly positioned as the main antagonist.
The reported casting has also led to comparisons with a father in law versus son in law conflict. However, the exact nature of the relationships between the characters and the reason behind their confrontation have not been revealed by the makers.
For Ram Pothineni, the project could offer a different opportunity as he steps into a negative role opposite one of Indian cinema’s biggest stars. The actor has mainly been seen in leading roles throughout his career, particularly in Telugu films. His reported appearance as the antagonist could therefore mark a change from the kind of characters he has usually played.
#RamPothineni 2.0 🔥💥
— Movies4u Official (@Movies4u_Officl) August 19, 2026
Ram Pothineni is all set to play the ANTAGONIST in #Rajinikanth's #Dharman! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/kJCnqHfRev
The film is currently in production, with its second shooting schedule underway in Chennai. The makers are reportedly bringing together actors from different parts of the Indian film industry, giving the project a pan Indian cast.
Rajinikanth’s involvement remains one of the major talking points around Dharman. The film marks his 173rd project and brings him together with director Ashwath Marimuthu, who is known for films such as Oh My Kadavule and Dragon.
Simran is also part of the cast, while Raashi Khanna is expected to play the female lead opposite Ram Pothineni. Further details about the supporting cast and the film’s plot are expected to be announced later.
With the second schedule currently underway, Dharman is targeting a 2027 release. The reported combination of Rajinikanth and Ram Pothineni could make the film an interesting clash of characters, although the makers are yet to officially confirm Ram’s role as the antagonist.