“COOLIE” Pre-release Event: Nagarjuna’s Powerful Villain Role & Rajinikanth’s Emotional Tribute Spark Buzz
The highly anticipated Pan-India action film Coolie is all set for a grand theatrical release on August 14, 2025, in Telugu states via Asian Multiplex Pvt Ltd, under the leadership of D. Suresh Babu, Dil Raju, Sunil Narang, and Bharat Narang. Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and produced by Kalanithi Maran under the prestigious Sun Pictures banner, the film features Superstar Rajinikanth in the lead, with King Nagarjuna playing a powerful villainous role.
At a grand pre-release event and press meet, the cast and crew shared exciting insights and heartfelt moments from the making of this epic film.
🔥 Nagarjuna: From Hero to Stylish Villain in “Coolie”
Speaking at the event, Nagarjuna Akkineni expressed his excitement and gratitude for being part of Coolie, calling it a “very positive and new experience”.
“After films like Ninne Pelladatha and Annamayya, some questioned my choice of offbeat roles. But I’ve always loved variety—characters that keep me creatively engaged. Coolie gave me that,” said Nagarjuna.
He recalled how director Lokesh Kanagaraj approached him with a unique pitch:
“He told me, ‘If you’re willing to play a villain, I have a story. Otherwise, we’ll just have tea.’ I was intrigued.”
The character Simon, which Nagarjuna plays, is almost like a second hero in the story. Lokesh is known for giving villains equal weight as the protagonist, and Nagarjuna found that compelling.
He shared how much he admired Rajinikanth:
“During the shoot in Vizag, a behind-the-scenes video of mine leaked. Lokesh told me even greater evil exists in real life. I took that as a compliment to my performance.”
The veteran actor appreciated Sun Pictures for not compromising on budget and Lokesh’s precision in direction.
“He shoots with six cameras, gets scenes in single takes, and even returned ₹5 crore from the budget,” said Nagarjuna.
He also praised co-stars Sathyaraj, Shruti Haasan, Soubin Shahir, and Upendra, and added,
“Playing a villain here gave me a strangely positive experience. I felt like a better actor.”
🌟 Rajinikanth: “Coolie is My Diamond Jubilee Film”
In a special video byte, Superstar Rajinikanth addressed Telugu fans, calling Coolie his Diamond Jubilee film, marking 50 glorious years in cinema.
“Lokesh is to Tamil cinema what Rajamouli is to Telugu. Every film of his has been a hit.”
Rajinikanth highlighted the stellar ensemble cast that includes Sathyaraj, Upendra, Soubin, and even Aamir Khan, who makes a special appearance—his first in a South Indian film.
On Nagarjuna’s role as Simon, Rajini shared:
“When I heard the story, I wanted to play Simon myself. I was curious who would take it up. After six months of searching and multiple meetings, Lokesh convinced Nagarjuna.”
“He doesn’t need to do films for money, yet he chose this. We worked together 33 years ago—he still looks as young. His transformation is amazing.”
Rajini also recalled a moment from their 17-day night shoot in Thailand, where after a grueling schedule, he handed every crew member a gift, saying:
“Take something home for your kids.”
🎬 Lokesh Kanagaraj: A Dream Project
Director Lokesh Kanagaraj thanked the producers, cast, and especially Rajinikanth, for trusting his vision:
“Convincing Nagarjuna sir was a challenge. It took seven narrations. But once he came on board, he owned the role. You’ll see his brilliance on screen.”
He also acknowledged the efforts of Aamir Khan, Sathyaraj, Upendra, Soubin, and Shruti Haasan, calling it a dream ensemble.
🎤 Shruti Haasan: “A Special Film for Me”
Shruti Haasan called her role in Coolie “very special” and praised Lokesh for writing such a strong character.
“I never imagined I’d work with Rajinikanth. Sharing screen space with him is a blessing. Nagarjuna sir is fantastic in this film; the audience will love his character.”
💬 D. Suresh Babu: “Nagarjuna as a Bad Boy is Intriguing”
Producer Suresh Babu said:
“As a fan of Lokesh’s Kaithi and Vikram, watching Nagarjuna play a negative role is a thrilling change. He’s nailed the role.”
🎭 Sathyaraj: “A Huge Film with a Powerful Cast”
Veteran actor Sathyaraj shared his joy:
“It’s an honor to act alongside legends like Rajinikanth and Nagarjuna. This is going to be a massive success.”
🗣️ Dil Raju: “A New Trend with Nagarjuna’s Negative Role”
Producer Dil Raju praised Nagarjuna’s bold choice:
“He set a trend with Annamayya, and now he’s doing it again with a negative role. Today, audiences appreciate fresh roles and reinvention. Coolie will set a new benchmark.”
He also thanked Sun Pictures for bringing Coolie to Telugu screens and predicted a sensational worldwide success.
🎧 Anirudh’s Score: The Sonic Backbone of “Coolie”
Composer Anirudh Ravichander’s background score is being touted as a major highlight. Known for back-to-back hits, his music is expected to elevate Coolie’s intensity to the next level.
✅ KEY HIGHLIGHTS of COOLIE:
- 🎥 Directed by: Lokesh Kanagaraj
- 🎭 Lead Role: Rajinikanth
- 🦹♂️ Villain Role: Nagarjuna Akkineni as Simon
- 🎶 Music: Anirudh Ravichander
- 🌍 Pan-India Release: August 14, 2025
- 📍 Languages: Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam
- 🎞️ Production: Sun Pictures
- 👥 Cast Includes: Aamir Khan (special appearance), Sathyaraj, Shruti Haasan, Upendra, Soubin Shahir
Coolie is not just another action entertainer—it’s a star-studded, emotionally rich, genre-bending spectacle that marks the evolution of Indian cinema’s biggest names. With Rajinikanth’s milestone, Nagarjuna’s transformation, and Lokesh’s storytelling mastery, Coolie is poised to create a cinematic storm this Independence Day weekend.
