What is Anurag Kashyap's stance on the 'Toxic' teaser backlash?

Anurag Kashyap has defended the 'Toxic' teaser, stating that the criticism reflects cultural hypocrisy in Indian society and highlights double standards regarding depictions of sexuality.

Why did the teaser for 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups' face criticism?

The teaser faced backlash primarily due to a brief sexually suggestive scene involving lead actor Yash, which some critics found explicit and unnecessary.

When is 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups' scheduled for release?

'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups' is scheduled to be released in theaters on March 19, 2026.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Kashyap Defends 'Toxic' Teaser: Indian Society's Hypocrisy Exposed

Kashyap Defends 'Toxic' Teaser: Indian Society's Hypocrisy Exposed

2 Feb

•

Summary

Kashyap defends 'Toxic' teaser, calls criticism cultural hypocrisy.
Teaser faced backlash for a sexually suggestive scene.
Film stars Yash, Nayanthara, and others; releasing March 2026.

Kashyap Defends 'Toxic' Teaser: Indian Society's Hypocrisy Exposed

Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has publicly defended the teaser of the pan-India film 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups,' addressing controversy at the 17th Bengaluru International Film Festival. The film's initial teaser, released on January 8, drew backlash for a sexually suggestive scene featuring lead actor Yash.

Kashyap characterized the criticism as evidence of "cultural hypocrisy," questioning why explicit content featuring male actors is rarely scrutinized with the same intensity. He argued that society's discomfort with female sexuality contrasts sharply with its acceptance of male machismo on screen.

The teaser also faced formal complaints from the Aam Aadmi Party's Women's Wing, which submitted a petition to the Karnataka State Commission for Women, citing potential harm to social values. The female actor featured in the controversial clip reportedly deleted her social media accounts due to online criticism.