Yash’s upcoming action-drama Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups continues to build momentum as one of the most ambitious Indian films in the making. With every new reveal, the film’s universe grows darker, richer and more immersive. The latest addition to this evolving cinematic world is Rukmini Vasanth, who has been officially unveiled as Mellisa, a character described as graceful, commanding and unflinching.

Rukmini Vasanth introduced as Mellisa in Yash starrer Toxic; makers unveil another powerful character from the action epic

This marks a significant collaboration for Rukmini Vasanth, who joins Yash under the distinctive cinematic vision of filmmaker Geetu Mohandas. Known for her intelligence-driven performances and emotional depth, Rukmini’s casting signals a character that is expected to seamlessly fit into Geetu’s layered, atmospheric storytelling while aligning with Yash’s ambition to create a film that resonates on a global scale.

Following the unveiling of first looks featuring Kiara Advani as Nadia, Huma Qureshi as Elizabeth, Nayanthara as Ganga, and Tara Sutaria as Rebecca, Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups further deepens its narrative landscape with Mellisa’s introduction. Set against the backdrop of a vibrant, hazy party in the late 1960s, Mellisa is seen moving with unwavering self-assurance. While the atmosphere around her feels fluid and drifting, her presence remains sharply focused, navigating the space with a quiet authority that instantly commands attention.

With each character reveal, the film continues to expand its emotional terrain and cinematic scale, strengthening its position as one of the most anticipated Indian releases of 2026.

Director Geetu Mohandas shared her experience of working with Rukmini Vasanth, saying, “What I admire most about Rukmini is her intelligence as an actor. She doesn’t just perform , she processes. She asks questions, not out of doubt but out of curiosity. It pushes me to think deeper and sometimes even my own choices as a director. Watching her work reminds me that intelligence on screen often lies in what is left unsaid. Between shots, I often see her quietly writing in her journal , capturing thoughts, small anecdotes from the set. Those moments say a lot about her process. She is constantly building her own inner world. I find her approach incredibly thoughtful, and at times I honestly wish I could steal those pages and read through them, just to understand the mind behind such a layered performance.”

Written by Yash and Geetu Mohandas and directed by Mohandas, Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups has been simultaneously shot in Kannada and English, with dubbed versions planned in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and several other languages. The film features an acclaimed technical team including National Award-winning cinematographer Rajeev Ravi, composer Ravi Basrur, editor Ujwal Kulkarni and production designer TP Abid. Action sequences are choreographed by Hollywood action director JJ Perry (John Wick), along with National Award-winning duo Anbariv and Kecha Khamphakdee.

Produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash under KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, Toxic is slated for a grand theatrical release on March 19, 2026, coinciding with Eid, Ugadi and Gudi Padwa.

Also Read: Toxic makers plan to unveil teaser of Yash starrer on his 40th birthday: Report