Sathyaraj reunites with Rajinikanth after 38 years in Lokesh Kanagaraj’s Coolie

Before turning a lead hero in 1986, actor Sathyaraj was a mainstay as one of the antagonists in many films starring the likes of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. In fact, Sathyaraj and Rajinikanth have acted together in six films, the last of which was Mr Bharath in 1986. After 38 years, these two superstars will be sharing screen space in Lokesh Kanagaraj’s upcoming big-budget actioner, Coolie. The makers revealed this casting update in their ongoing series of character announcements on social media.     

Sathyaraj is set to play the role of Rajasekhar, and it is speculated that he would playing the friend of Rajinikanth in the film, which is a marked change from the usual villain roles he has played in the ‘Superstar’ films of the 80s. Apart from Sathyaraj, the movie also stars Nagarjuna, Shruti Haasan, and Soubin Shahir. Coolie, which marks the maiden collaboration between Lokesh and Rajinikanth, is also said to star Kannada superstar Upendra, and it is this announcement that is expected later today. 

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The collaboration between Rajinkanth and Sathyaraj takes even more prominence considering many of the ‘almost’ moments this happened, including Shankar’s Sivaji. Also, Sathyaraj has many a time openly criticised Rajinikanth for few of the latter’s political opinions. However, it seems that the duo have left bygones be bygones, and are working in what is turning out to be one of the most-anticipated films of Indian cinema. 

Introducing #Sathyaraj as Rajasekar, from the world of #Coolie ✨@rajinikanth @Dir_Lokesh @anirudhofficial @anbariv @girishganges @philoedit @Dir_Chandhru @PraveenRaja_Off pic.twitter.com/YZOBWZ1nyb

— Sun Pictures (@sunpictures) August 31, 2024

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With cinematography by Girish Gangadharan and music by Anirudh Ravichander, Coolie, which is currently on floors, is expected to hit the screens in 2025. Apart from Coolie, Rajinikanth also has TJ Gnanavel’s Vettaiyan, which is slated for a release on October 10.