Acclaimed South Indian superstar Ajith Kumar, affectionately known as ‘Thala,’ has traded the camera’s glare for the track’s fast lane, gracing the November 2025 cover of The Hollywood Reporter India. The striking feature, captured during a high-octane photoshoot at the Dubai Autodrome, is accompanied by an exclusive, in-depth interview with renowned film critic and journalist, Anupama Chopra. The conversation beautifully blends the two worlds of the Padma Bhushan awardee: his enduring legacy in cinema and his deep-seated passion for motorsports.
The Toll of Stunts and the Therapy of Speed
In one of the interview’s most surprising revelations, Ajith Kumar clarified misconceptions surrounding the physical costs of his parallel careers. He disclosed that he has undergone an astonishing 29 surgeries, stating that the vast majority were the result of demanding “film stunts” rather than his high-speed racing endeavors. Addressing his philosophy, the actor opened up about how racing offers him a unique form of meditation, explaining, “racing helps him appreciate life’s fragility.” It is on the track, as a participant in events like the 24H Dubai endurance race with his team, Ajith Kumar Racing, where he finds “speed and stillness coexist.” For Ajith, one powers the actor, and the other heals the man.
Humility, Minimalism, and the Next Blockbuster
Beyond the thrill of the race, the conversation delved into the deeper themes of humility and staying grounded despite decades of mega-stardom. Ajith shared his “minimalist approach to life,” emphasizing his conscious decision to avoid the trappings of celebrity, such as large entourages. His professional ethos remains one of profound dedication and new beginnings: a philosophy of “approaching every film and race as if it were his first.” He stressed the importance of constantly moving outside of his “comfort zones,” viewing challenges with an optimistic and open outlook.
The feature naturally built excitement for his much-anticipated cinematic project, currently codenamed AK64. The article confirms that the film’s official announcement is slated for January 2026, with shooting set to commence shortly thereafter.
A Shoutout to Indian Motorsport
Demonstrating his commitment to the sport in India, Ajith Kumar also used the platform to shine a light on the Indian racing community. He expressed his strong admiration for pioneering Indian drivers such as Narain Karthikeyan, Karun Chandhok, Aditya Patel, Armaan Ebrahim, and Sai Sanjay, while simultaneously articulating a heartfelt hope for the continued growth and brighter future of motorsports within the country. The actor also paid tribute to international racing legends who inspire him, citing Ayrton Senna, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen.
The Dubai Autodrome Photoshoot: A Blend of Elegance and Velocity
The spectacular cover story is visually elevated by a stunning photoshoot captured by Photographer Ben Cope. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Dubai Autodrome, the images perfectly encapsulate Ajith Kumar’s two personas. In some shots, he is seen in his professional Ajith Kumar Racing suit, helmet in hand, standing next to a high-performance sports car—a true racer in his element. In contrasting photos, he exudes a relaxed, yet powerful elegance, clad in a crisp all-white suit and linen trousers, often leaning against or seated within the vibrant orange interior of a supercar. These stylish portraits, including a striking black-and-white image, showcase his understated charisma and the natural confidence of a man who is master of both the screen and the speedway.
