Dhanush has begun work on his 56th film, tentatively referred to as ‘D56’, with director Tamizharasan Pachamuthu. The rural-set project got underway with a traditional pooja at the Maranadu Karuppanasamy Temple near Tiruppachethi in Sivaganga on Friday. Dhanush attended the ceremony with members of the cast and crew, while large crowds of fans gathered at the venue. The film’s official title is yet to be announced, although reports have linked it to the name ‘Padaiyal’.
Dhanush’s ‘D56’ begins with temple pooja
‘D56’ marks Dhanush’s first collaboration with Tamizharasan Pachamuthu, the filmmaker behind Lubber Pandhu. Dhanush had effectively confirmed the project as his 56th film earlier this year after Pachamuthu shared an update about the film’s recce.The team’s latest temple ceremony signals the start of the film’s shooting. Reports have suggested that the story will have a rural setting, with Madurai and its surrounding regions expected to form an important backdrop. However, the makers have not yet officially revealed the full plot or title.
‘D56’ temple launch draws crowds with a camera-related dispute
The film’s launch attracted a sizeable gathering of Dhanush fans, who assembled at the temple to see the actor. As part of the ceremony, Dhanush is also reported to have offered an 18-foot sickle to the temple.A separate incident involving a camera inside the temple premises has also drawn attention on social media. According to a report by Polimer, a temple staff member objected when a cinema camera was brought inside to record the pooja, reportedly citing restrictions on filming within the temple. Footage of the alleged exchange subsequently circulated online.Against this backdrop, Dhanush addressed the gathering briefly. He said: “Om Namashivaya. This Poojai is happening today with the belief in God in the background and the people in front of me. I don’t want to talk much today. Everyone, eat the ‘Kada Virundhu’ well and go home safely. We’ll meet soon at the OM Audio Launch.”
Vadivelu, SJ Suryah and Preethi Mukundhan part of ‘D56’
‘D56’ reunites Dhanush with Tamizharasan Pachamuthu, whose Lubber Pandhu received widespread attention following its release. The upcoming film features a sizeable ensemble, with Vadivelu, SJ Suryah, Preethi Mukundhan and Vijay Kumar reported to be part of the cast. Music is being composed by Sai Abhyankkar, while further technical details are expected to be announced as production progresses.Vijay Kumar’s involvement had previously been hinted at after he exchanged social-media posts with Pachamuthu and indicated that he would join the filmmaker for ‘D56’.
Is Dhanush’s D56 titled ‘Padaiyal’?
The film’s title remains one of the major unanswered questions surrounding the project. ‘Padaiyal’ has been widely reported as a possible title, but it has not been officially announced by the makers.In fact, Tamizharasan Pachamuthu previously reacted humorously to the speculation, writing, “PADAIYAL – nalla irukke… nan yen yosikkaama ponen… Sari ok Pesama ‘A Tamizharasan Pachamuthu Padaiyal’ nu pottudren… Nandri.” His response suggested that the title discussion was still at the rumour stage rather than an official announcement.Earlier reports have also described ‘D56’ as a rural action drama, but the director has not publicly confirmed the film’s storyline.
Dhanush moves to ‘D56’ after completing ‘OM’
Dhanush is moving ahead with ‘D56’ after completing work on ‘OM: Chapter 1 – Udhiram’ (The Blood Wood), his collaboration with director Rajkumar Periasamy. The film features Mammootty, Sai Pallavi, Sreeleela, Nassar and Indrans alongside Dhanush.‘OM’ is scheduled to release theatrically in October 2026 and is currently among Dhanush’s major upcoming projects. Dhanush also has a reunion with director Mari Selvaraj in the pipeline, besides his announced collaboration with Vetri Maaran on Thamizh Murugan.
