A fresh casting buzz has emerged around Rajinikanth’s upcoming film Dharman. Telugu actor Ram Pothineni is reportedly being considered for a key negative role opposite Rajinikanth, according to multiple reports published on August 19, 2026. However, the makers have not officially confirmed the casting yet, so it should be treated as a developing report rather than confirmed news.
Ram Pothineni in Dharman?
According to the latest reports, Ram Pothineni could be joining the cast of Dharman as an antagonist who faces Rajinikanth’s character.
Cinema Express reports that speculation has been circulating about Ram’s addition to the film, with reports suggesting that he could play Rajinikanth’s son-in-law and a key antagonist. The publication also notes that official confirmation is still awaited.
If the casting turns out to be true, it would be an interesting change for Ram Pothineni, who has predominantly appeared as a leading actor in Telugu cinema.
Why the Casting Could Be Interesting
A Rajinikanth-Ram Pothineni face-off would bring together two actors from different generations and film industries.
Ram has largely been seen in energetic lead roles, so taking on a darker or antagonistic character could give him an opportunity to explore a different side of his acting.
For Dharman, the casting could also increase interest among Telugu-speaking audiences, particularly if Ram has an important role rather than simply appearing in a brief sequence.
However, details about his reported character and the exact relationship with Rajinikanth’s character have not been officially revealed.
What Is Dharman About?
Very little about the actual storyline has been officially revealed.
The film is directed by Ashwath Marimuthu and stars Rajinikanth in the lead. The project is being produced by Kamal Haasan’s Raaj Kamal Films International.
The movie has entered its second shooting schedule, with the latest official production update coming from the makers in August. The official update described Rajinikanth’s character as “The Deadly Doctor.”
The reported cast also includes Simran, Raashii Khanna and Yogi Babu, while Anirudh Ravichander is handling the music.
Is Ram Pothineni Confirmed?
No, not officially at this point.
This is the most important detail to mention if you’re publishing this as a news post.
Several entertainment reports have carried the Ram Pothineni casting story, but the filmmakers have yet to make an official announcement confirming his role.
So the safest headline and wording are:
Ram Pothineni to Play Antagonist Opposite Rajinikanth in Dharman? Here’s What We Know
The question mark is important because the information is currently based on reports and industry buzz.
Could Ram Play Rajinikanth’s Son-in-Law?
Some reports have gone further and suggested that Ram Pothineni could portray Rajinikanth’s son-in-law, potentially creating a family conflict between the two characters. This remains unconfirmed.
Reports have also linked Raashii Khanna to a younger pair alongside Ram, but these character relationships should not be presented as official until the production team confirms them.
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