Rukmini Vasanth unveils first look in 'Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups'

Highlights:

• Rukmini Vasanth’s first-look poster as Melissa is unveiled
• The film stars Kannada superstar Yash in the lead
• Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Geetu Mohandas
• Features a multi-starrer cast including Kiara Advani and Nayanthara
• The film will release in multiple Indian languages

The first-look poster of actress Rukmini Vasanth from the upcoming action thriller Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups has been unveiled, offering audiences a glimpse of her character Melissa. The film, headlined by Kannada superstar Yash, is scheduled for a theatrical release on March 19.

Released Tuesday (6) on the makers’ official Instagram account, the poster presents Rukmini Vasanth in a commanding and glamorous avatar. She is seen walking confidently through a party setting, surrounded by guests, drawing attention in a flowing turquoise gown paired with a retro-inspired updo. The visual frames her as poised, powerful, and enigmatic—suggesting a character with both elegance and influence.

The caption accompanying the poster read, “Introducing Rukmini Vasanth as MELLISA in – A Toxic Fairy Tale For Grown-Ups,” formally announcing her role in the high-profile project.

Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups has steadily built anticipation through a series of character reveals. Prior to Rukmini’s introduction, the filmmakers released posters featuring Kiara Advani as Nadia, Huma Qureshi as Elizabeth, Nayanthara as Ganga, and Tara Sutaria as Rebecca. The ensemble cast points to a layered narrative driven by strong female characters alongside Yash’s lead role.

The film is directed by Geetu Mohandas, an internationally recognized filmmaker known for her nuanced storytelling. Speaking to Variety, Mohandas praised Rukmini Vasanth’s approach to acting, emphasizing her intellectual engagement with the craft.

“What I admire most about Rukmini is her intelligence as an actor,” Mohandas said. “She does not just perform; she processes. She asks questions not out of doubt but curiosity, and that pushes me to think deeper—even about my own choices as a director.”

Mohandas further highlighted the actress’s preparation and introspection on set, noting that Rukmini often documents her thoughts between takes. “She is constantly building her own inner world,” the director said, adding that watching her work is a reminder that “intelligence on screen often lies in what is left unsaid.”

Produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash under the banners of KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations, Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups has been written and filmed in both Kannada and English. The filmmakers plan to release dubbed versions in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam, signaling a wide pan-Indian and international reach.

Positioned as a stylized action thriller with emotional depth, Toxic continues to generate buzz with each new reveal. Rukmini Vasanth’s first look as Melissa adds another layer of intrigue, setting expectations for a performance that balances glamour, restraint, and power.