Yash’s highly anticipated action thriller, Toxic: A Fairytale or Grown-Ups, has found itself embroiled in controversies even before hitting the theatres. The film, directed by Geethu Mohandas and co-written by Yash himself, has drawn attention for its teaser, which has sparked mixed reactions among audiences and prompted complaints from multiple quarters. Following criticism from the Women’s Commission over a provocative sex scene, the National Christian Federation lodged a complaint with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and other authorities, claiming the teaser hurts religious sentiments.
The teaser shows a sex scene inside a car parked near a cemetery, followed by a violent gunfight within the cemetery grounds. The cemetery houses several religious icons, including a statue of Archangel Michael. This led the Christian group to assert that the visuals were offensive to religious beliefs. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the depiction of women, with the complaint alleging that the scene “outrages the modesty of women.” Both complaints have been formally addressed to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce, as well as the state’s Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, and the CBFC.
Amid the controversy, Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce president Dr Jayamala offered her perspective, urging caution before forming opinions based solely on the teaser. Speaking to reporters, she stated, “Complaints have come in about the Toxic teaser, but I am not aware of what exactly is wrong. A teaser is just a glimpse meant to attract audiences to theatres. Discussing the film before it has been reviewed by the censor board is premature. Filmmakers invest hundreds of crores into their work, and viewers should see the full film before forming an opinion.”
Dr Jayamala further emphasized that the filmmakers have denied the allegations of disrespectful or obscene content. “The film is yet to be reviewed and certified ahead of the release, so the complaints will be addressed through a due regulatory process,” she added. Her statement underscores the importance of distinguishing between promotional material and the final, certified film.
Toxic stars Rukmini Vasanth, Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Tara Sutaria, Huma Qureshi, Akshay Oberoi, and Sudev Nair in pivotal roles. Yash takes on the lead role, adding his signature action flair to the film. As both co-writer and actor, Yash has infused the narrative with high-octane sequences, intense drama, and stylized storytelling that the teaser only partially hints at.
Despite the controversy, the film is scheduled to release on March 19, 2026, and will clash with the highly anticipated Dhurandhar 2, starring Ranveer Singh. The release timing and the ensuing box office clash are expected to generate considerable buzz, both for the film’s cinematic content and for how the controversies affect audience turnout.
The ongoing debate highlights the challenges filmmakers face in balancing creative freedom with social sensitivities, especially in India, where religious and moral sentiments are highly respected. Industry experts note that teasers often exaggerate scenes for marketing purposes, and the final product may present these sequences in a different narrative context after certification by the CBFC.
As the release date approaches, the focus is now on how audiences and critics will receive the full film, and whether the controversies surrounding the teaser will influence its box office performance. With a star-studded ensemble, gripping action, and a storyline that promises intensity, Toxic aims to establish itself as a major action entertainer in the coming months.
