Superstar Rajinikanth has confirmed plans for a sequel to his 1999 blockbuster film, Padayappa, titled Neelambari: Padayappa 2. This announcement comes just ahead of the actor's 75th birthday on December 12, 2025. In a video shared on social media, Rajinikanth discussed the upcoming film, noting the 25-year gap since the original.
The original Padayappa featured Rajinikanth as Aaru Padayappan, a mechanical engineer, alongside Sivaji Ganesan as his father, Dharmalingam, and Soundarya as his wife, Vasundhara. Ramya Krishnan played the iconic role of Neelambari, the film's antagonist. The film revolved around Padayappa's journey from prosperity to adversity after his father's death and his conflicts with Neelambari, who harbored a grudge against him.
Rajinikanth revealed that the idea for a sequel arose from seeing the success of sequels like 2.0 and Jailer 2. He stated, "Now, when I see sequels like 2.0 (sequel of Robo) and Jailer 2, I wonder why not Padayappa 2? The title will be Neelambari: Padayappa 2." He also mentioned that the storyline is currently under development. "We are currently working on the storyline, and if it turns out well, similar to Padayappa, there will indeed be a Neelambari. It will be thrilling for the audience, and I'm on it," he said.
In the original film, Neelambari declares that she will take revenge in her next birth, which Rajinikanth referenced as a reason for the sequel. He also disclosed that he was the actual producer of the film and had conceived the story and title.
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, Padayappa will be re-released in theaters on December 12, coinciding with Rajinikanth's birthday. Rajinikanth explained his decision not to sell the film to OTT platforms, emphasizing that it was made for the big screen. "We didn't sell the film to any OTT or satellite platforms. I only permitted Sun Pictures to screen it. It's a film meant for the big screen. And now, 25 years later, you will witness Padayappa on December 12, my birthday," he stated.
Padayappa, directed by K.S. Ravikumar, was a major box office success upon its release on April 10, 1999. It was the first Tamil film released worldwide with 210 prints and 700,000 audio cassettes, becoming the highest-grossing Tamil film at the time. The film received critical acclaim, particularly for Ramya Krishnan's performance, which earned her a Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Tamil. The film also secured five Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, including Best Film and Best Actor for Rajinikanth.
In Padayappa, Neelambari's unrequited love and subsequent vengeful schemes form a central conflict. Her character was inspired by Nandhini from Kalki Krishnamurthy's historical novel Ponniyin Selvan. The film explores themes of family loyalty, resilience, and retribution.
The re-release of Padayappa and the announcement of Neelambari: Padayappa 2 serve as a special treat for Rajinikanth's fans, celebrating his illustrious 50-year career in the film industry.
