Director Lokesh Kanagaraj took to social media to share a heartfelt note and behind-the-scenes pictures from the set of Coolie, his highly anticipated collaboration with Rajinikanth, celebrating both the film and the legendary actor’s remarkable 50 years in cinema.
"Coolie will always be a special film in my journey," Lokesh wrote. "And the reason this film shaped up the way it did with everyone pouring their hearts and love into it is because of you, #Thalaivar @rajinikanth sir. Will forever be grateful for this opportunity, and the conversations we’ve shared both on and off the film! These are moments I will always cherish and never forget. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for continuously inspiring all of us and hearty congratulations on completing 50 glorious years of making us love you, learn from you, and grow with you! We love you #Thalaivaa."
The upcoming Tamil action thriller Coolie, produced by Sun Pictures, marks Rajinikanth’s fifth collaboration with the banner and serves as a tribute to his iconic "coolie" roles from the 1970s and 1990s. As per NDTV’s recent analysis, the teaser reflects this homage through vintage styling, punchy dialogues, and references to his legendary mass appeal.
Born Shivaji Rao Gaikwad, Rajinikanth’s transformation from Bangalore bus conductor to pan-Indian superstar is a story woven into the fabric of Indian cinema. With Coolie, he continues to reinforce his box-office dominance — reportedly earning ₹150 crore for the film — echoing the success of Lokesh’s Leo (2023), which grossed over ₹600 crore worldwide and expanded the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU).
The BTS photos shared by Lokesh capture warm, candid moments between the director and the superstar, hinting at a mutual admiration that transcends generations. With Aamir Khan joining the cast, Coolie is poised to be a high-octane entertainer that may further reshape Tamil cinema’s trajectory, integrating it into the trend of interconnected cinematic universes.
As fans eagerly await the film’s release, Coolie already stands as a symbol of legacy, reverence, and reinvention — led by two artists at very different yet converging peaks of their careers.