It’s official — Superstar Rajinikanth’s Coolie will hit Tamil Nadu screens as early as 9:00 AM on its release day, August 14, 2025. The Tamil Nadu government has granted special permission for an early First Day First Show (FDFS), following strong appeals from Sun TV Network Limited, theater owners, and fan representatives. This decision has sparked a wave of excitement across the state, setting the stage for one of the biggest cinematic celebrations in recent memory.
The special government order, issued under the Tamil Nadu Cinemas (Regulation) Act, 1955, allows a single early screening on the release day, in addition to the regular schedule. The approval came after the Chennai City Police Commissioner’s office and industry stakeholders submitted detailed plans to ensure crowd control, traffic management, and public safety. Initially, police had refused permission for pre-regular shows, citing possible overcrowding, but the unprecedented hype surrounding Coolie convinced authorities that an early show could help disperse the massive turnout more efficiently.
Fan anticipation for Coolie has been building for months, and with this decision, preparations for grand celebrations have kicked into high gear. Across the state, Rajinikanth fan clubs are planning early morning processions starting as early as 4:00 AM, complete with drums, music bands, and decorated vehicles. Giant cutouts of Rajinikanth will be adorned with garlands, while milk abhishekams, special poojas, and charity drives such as blood donation camps and free meal services are expected to mark the occasion. Theater owners have already reported that tickets for the 9:00 AM show sold out within minutes, with demand spilling over into the black market.
The government’s permission, however, comes with strict conditions. Only one special show before the regular schedule will be allowed, and theaters must adhere to safety regulations including adequate barricading, police deployment, traffic diversions, and fire safety measures. Officials have warned that any violations could result in suspension of screenings. They have also clarified that this approval is a one-time concession due to the unique circumstances of Coolie’s release and is not a change in policy for future films.
For the Tamil film industry, the early FDFS is more than just a timing advantage — it’s a cultural tradition that amplifies a film’s opening-day impact and deepens the emotional bond between a star and his fans. For Rajinikanth, whose mass appeal spans generations, the green signal for Coolie’s early show is a testament to his enduring box office dominance. As Tamil Nadu counts down to August 14, the state is bracing for a cinematic festival unlike any other, with Coolie poised to dominate both the big screen and the cultural conversation.
