Filmmaker Slams Yash's 'Toxic' Amid Box Office Buzz

Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has made a pointed remark about Yash's recently released film, 'Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups.' Directed by Geetu Mohandas, 'Toxic' opened in cinemas on August 26, 2026, and reports indicate it has already surpassed the opening-day box office figures of Varma's favored film, 'Dhurandhar.'

Varma, a known supporter of the 'Dhurandhar' franchise, posted on X (formerly Twitter) about rewatching 'Dhurandhar,' a comment that gained attention as 'Toxic's' box office performance became public. The film has garnered a mixed reception, with appreciation for its aesthetic elements, including cinematography and Yash's performance, contrasted by critiques regarding its narrative substance.

This exchange continues a pattern of Varma commenting on the perceived rivalry between the two movies. Previously, ahead of 'Toxic's' original March 2026 release date, Varma had elaborated on his view that the films represented a clash of cinematic cultures rather than regional competition. He argued that 'Dhurandhar' respected audience intelligence, whereas 'Toxic' did not.

As of the report, 'Toxic' had earned over Rs. 79 crore net in India on its first day, with its gross India collection exceeding Rs. 93 crore. The film features Yash in the lead role alongside Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Tara Sutaria, Rukmini Vasanth, and Huma Qureshi.