Actor Ram has reportedly changed his upcoming film schedule after receiving an opportunity to be part of Rajinikanth's much-anticipated project, Dharman. The development has affected the shooting plans of his next directorial venture, tentatively titled RAPO23, which was earlier scheduled to arrive in theatres in December 2026.
Ram had completed consecutive shooting schedules for RAPO23, with the team initially planning to bring the film to audiences by the end of 2026. However, he reportedly received an offer from the team of Dharman, featuring Superstar Rajinikanth in the lead role. Ram is said to have accepted an important character in the project and allocated bulk dates for its production.
As a result, the shooting of RAPO23 has been postponed. According to reports, Ram will return to the sets of his directorial project only after completing his portions for Dharman. This change in schedule is also expected to affect the film's previously announced December 2026 release plans.
Ram is reportedly sporting a completely different appearance for the Rajinikanth starrer. He is expected to return to the look planned for RAPO23 once his shooting commitments for Dharman are completed. Reports also suggest that his character in the Rajinikanth film will have considerable importance in the storyline.
Dharman is directed by Ashwath Marimuthu and produced by Kamal Haasan. The project features an impressive ensemble cast, including Simran, Nayanthara, Raashii Khanna, Sreeleela and Yogi Babu in important roles. Anirudh Ravichander is composing the music for the film.
The makers had initially planned to release Dharman during the Sankranthi 2027 festive season. However, the release schedule has reportedly been revised, with the film now targeting a summer 2027 theatrical arrival.
Ram's decision to prioritise Dharman has consequently pushed RAPO23 further down the production schedule. While audiences will have to wait longer for his directorial venture, his association with Rajinikanth's film has added another interesting dimension to the project.
