Lokesh Kanagaraj reveals why he turned down villain role in Parasakthi
Lokesh Kanagaraj, one of the most admired filmmakers in Indian cinema today, recently opened up about why he chose to say no to a significant acting opportunity. The director, currently busy with the release plans of his much-anticipated film Coolie starring Rajinikanth, revealed that he was approached to play the antagonist in Sudha Kongara’s upcoming political drama Parasakthi, which features Sivakarthikeyan in the lead.
Lokesh Kanagaraj says schedule clash stopped him from accepting Parasakthi
During a recent round of promotional interviews for Coolie, Lokesh Kanagaraj shared an interesting behind-the-scenes detail that had not been made public before. The director revealed that he had multiple discussions with Sudha Kongara and was genuinely interested in taking up the negative role in Parasakthi. The project intrigued him, especially since it was opposite Sivakarthikeyan, who reportedly even encouraged Lokesh to take up the part.
But the timing didn’t work in his favor. The shoot schedule of Parasakthi clashed with the production timeline of Coolie, which was already a massive project in itself. Given the responsibility of directing a film featuring a superstar like Rajinikanth and the pressure of maintaining deadlines, Lokesh ultimately had to back out from the acting offer. He stated that Coolie demanded his full attention and dedication, and any distraction would have risked the film’s timely completion.
Lokesh Kanagaraj’s acting debut is still happening, but in a different film
Even though Lokesh Kanagaraj opted out of Parasakthi, fans need not be disappointed. The director has already committed to an acting debut but on his own terms. He is set to appear as the lead in an upcoming gangster drama directed by Arun Matheswaran. The project is currently in pre-production and will go on floors in the coming months. Unlike a side role or cameo, this film will feature Lokesh in a full-fledged protagonist role, something that has already created a buzz in the Tamil film industry. Also Read: Pratik Gandhi Plays RAW Agent in High-Stakes Spy Drama ‘Saare Jahan Se Accha’ Set Before the Last War 2025
Parasakthi is shaping up to be a politically charged drama
Meanwhile, Parasakthi itself is a film to look forward to. Directed by Sudha Kongara, the movie brings back the name of the iconic 1952 film but tells a completely new story. This version of Parasakthi will explore the Anti-Hindi agitations that shook Tamil Nadu during the 1960s. Sivakarthikeyan plays the central character, joined by a stellar cast including Ravi Mohan, Sreeleela, and Atharvaa. With such a strong political backdrop, the film is expected to be a hard-hitting commentary on language, identity, and regional pride.
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Had Lokesh Kanagaraj joined the cast, it would have added an entirely new layer of star power and surprise to the film. But given his commitment to delivering Coolie on time, the decision to decline was inevitable. His choice reflects his professionalism and focus as a filmmaker who wants to do justice to every role he takes whether behind or in front of the camera.
Conclusion
Lokesh Kanagaraj’s decision to decline a major villain role in Parasakthi shows how carefully he balances his career choices. With Coolie releasing on August 14 and a personal acting debut lined up soon, the director clearly has his hands full. While fans may have missed seeing him in Sudha Kongara’s film, his upcoming projects promise enough excitement to keep everyone hooked.
