Jailer 2: “Ma’am was shaking while holding the cigarette,” says director Nelson Dilipkumar as he shares an anxious moment while shooting with Rajinikanth, Vidya Balan

Jailer 2 director remembered how Vidya Balan got visibly nervous shooting a scene with veteran actor Rajinikanth during a promotional event for the much-awaited sequel.
Entertainment desk
October 12, 2026 / 10:40 IST
Vidya Balan and Rajinikanth in Jailer 2 promo

Jailer 2 director Nelson Dilipkumar has shared a fun behind-the-scenes anecdote from the film’s set starring Vidya Balan and superstar Rajinikanth. The director remembered how Vidya got visibly nervous shooting a scene with the veteran actor during a promotional event for the much-awaited sequel.

The incident reportedly occurred during a scene in which Vidya’s character was supposed to smoke a cigaret and blow the smoke in Rajinikanth’s direction. The actress was apparently humbled by the experience of acting opposite the superstar, considering that she had to project confidence on screen.

VIDYA BALAN AS KANTHA IN #JAILER2! 💥🐯

A powerful addition to the world of Jailer 2! 👀🔥 https://t.co/bxbjOCcptg — CineArenaTN (@CineArenaTN) September 20, 2026

Vidya Balan Nervous For Rajinikanth Scene

Nelson recalled the moment and also shared about Vidya’s reaction while shooting for the sequence. He explained how she was holding the cigaret and shaking. “She was nervous to be sharing the frame with Rajinikanth,”

The anecdote gave a glimpse into the lighter moments behind the making of Jailer 2. Having appeared in Hindi and regional cinema, Vidya was required to cast a character with a striking screen presence. But being in a shot with Rajinikanth was a completely different experience.

The story also brought to light the superstar’s admiration and respect in the fraternity of actors, of all generations, including veterans who have worked across film industries.

Rajinikanth and Tiger Muthuvel Pandian Back in Jailer 2, Sequel to 2023 Blockbuster The film has been written and directed by Nelson Dilipkumar and features an ensemble cast including Ramya Krishnan, Yogi Babu, SJ Suryah, Mithun Chakraborty, Vidya Balan and Suraj Venjaramoodu among others.

Music composer Anirudh Ravichander continues his association with the franchise.

Jailer 2, under the banner of Sun Pictures, is slated for a theatrical release on October 15, 2026. The sequel, a major Tamil film release featuring a star-studded cast and the return of Rajinikanth’s popular character, has created a lot of buzz among fans.

Entertainment desk Entertainment Desk at Moneycontrol reports on the celebrities, movies that shape India’s entertainment industry. With a sharp focus on cinema, OTT, web series, and latest trends, the entertainment desk delivers verified news, and analytical stories that place entertainment within a wider economic and cultural context. Our coverage goes beyond celebrity to examine how storytelling, audiences and business decisions influence one of the country’s most influential creative industries.
first published: Oct 12, 2026 10:40 am

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