Prateik Babbar will be essaying the role of a villain in south superstar Rajinikanth's next, Darbar. The project, to be directed by AR Murugadoss, will feature Rajinikanth as a cop after 25 years. It will be the first time Prateik will be working with the superstar and the filmmaker. "It is such a dream come true to have bagged this project in such little time. This year is looking very positive for me and Sanya (Sagar) has been such a great influence on my life professionally and personally," the actor said in a statement.

"I can't wait to commence shooting with Rajinikanth sir and AR Murugadoss sir this week and create some magic," he added. The project, which was tentatively titled Thalaivar 167, also features Nayanthara as the female lead. The actress has previously worked with Rajinikanth in Kuselan, Chandramukhi and Sivaji.