Ajith Kumar opens up on his next film, Karur stampede, and family support in his recent interview

In a recent and remarkably candid interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Ajith Kumar opened up like never before about his next film, his passion for racing, the challenges that come with fame, and the unwavering support of his wife, Shalini.

Speaking about his much-awaited upcoming project, Ajith confirmed that he will begin shooting in a couple of months. “I will start shooting for my next film in a couple of months. An official announcement might arrive in January 2026,” he revealed, adding that while he’s keeping details under wraps, preparations are well underway.

When asked about the possibility of doing a Formula 1–themed film in India, Ajith smiled and said, “If it happens organically, I’m okay with it. Any way we can popularize the sport, I’m all for it.” Known for his deep involvement in motorsports, Ajith reflected on the risks of racing and how public perception often amplifies them. “Unfortunately, I’ve had terrible crashes like any other driver. But since I’m an actor, people think I’m always crashing,” he said. “In the film industry alone, I’ve undergone 129 surgeries. I’m an optimist. Every warrior who goes to the battlefield knows he may not return home.”

Addressing the viral mobile-grab incident during one of the elections, Ajith clarified that the situation was misrepresented. “They were taking pictures even though photography was prohibited. I grabbed the phone, and that video went viral. I was made to look like the bad guy, while the person who violated the rule looked like the victim,” he recalled.

On the sensitive Karur stampede issue, Ajith took a compassionate and collective view. “There’s so much happening in Tamil Nadu because of the stampede. That individual (referring to actor Vijay) is not responsible. We all are responsible. We’ve become so obsessed with crowds, and it projects the whole film industry in a bad light,” he said.

The actor also voiced concern over the toxic side of fan culture. “Today I have a good life thanks to my fans. But in the name of celebration, tearing seats or screens – come on, all this needs to end. Media comparisons about openings only fuel this. The next time, fans want to prove who’s bigger. It has to stop.”

Ajith also reflected on the downsides of stardom. “I can’t even drop my son at school. I can’t drive in India. If I get noticed, 50 or 60 motorcycles follow me for a picture, putting everyone’s life at risk. They claim to be fans, but accidents can happen. I have scars on my hands – one even cut by a blade,” he shared.

Turning personal, Ajith expressed immense gratitude toward his wife Shalini. “I don’t think I’m an easy person to live with. I know I’ve put her through a lot of hard times. But she’s been incredibly supportive. None of this could’ve happened without her,” he said with emotion.

Even after more than three decades in the industry, Ajith’s dedication to his craft remains undiminished. “I approach every film as my first. Even after a blockbuster, I set it aside. When a director or producer asks for a 120-day call sheet, I tell thems I’m giving you my 33 years of experience. You don’t have to take me to the next level, but please don’t set me back.”

With that being said, Ajith Kumar was last seen in Good Bad Ugly, which turned out to be a blockbuster. Reports suggest that his next film will once again see him collaborating with the same director, with music composed by Anirudh Ravichander and production handled by Raahul of Romeo Pictures. As Ajith himself mentioned, fans may not have to wait long, as the official announcement is expected to drop in the coming weeks.