Fans initially assumed LK7 would simply be Kaithi 2. The sequel has finally rolled into pre-production after years of anticipation, which only strengthens the possibility. At the same time, there is steady chatter from Telugu industry trackers that Lokesh has been courted for a major Telugu language project. If that becomes official, it would mark his first direct entry into Tollywood. For now the director has maintained radio silence, leaving both conversations wide open.
Lokesh splits focus as DC preps continue
Even as the talk around LK7 grows louder, Lokesh’s acting debut in DC is inching forward. Directed by Arun Matheswaran, the film casts him as Devadas with Wamiqa Gabbi as Chandra. Sun Pictures is producing the project following their collaboration on Coolie. Prep work for DC has been steady, with Lokesh attending readings and workshops as he balances the shift from behind the camera to in front of it.
He was earlier attached to direct Rajinikanth in Thalaivar 173 for Raaj Kamal Films International but stepped away after reported creative differences. The move created room for him to arrange his next phase which now includes LK7, Kaithi 2 and DC.
Coolie worked commercially but the response was far from unanimous
Coolie arrived on August 14 with the weight of expectation that naturally comes with a Rajinikanth headliner and a Lokesh Kanagaraj credit. The cast featured Nagarjuna, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj and Rachita Ram, with Aamir Khan and Pooja Hegde making short appearances. Audience reaction, however, was divided. Some fans enjoyed the scale and swagger but a sizeable section criticised the uneven screenplay and the lack of the trademark precision seen in Kaithi and Vikram. Critics echoed the same concerns. Despite this, strong festival weekend numbers and sustained turnout eventually pushed the film into commercial success territory.
With multiple projects now moving in parallel and a conscious effort to recalibrate after Coolie, Lokesh Kanagaraj seems set for a more controlled and deliberate next chapter.
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