I found my Ganga: Geetu Mohandas on working with Nayanthara in ‘Toxic’

Nayanthara has been cast as the third female lead in the highly anticipated film ‘Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups’, a project that has created a buzz across Indian cinema. She will be seen portraying a powerful and commanding character named Ganga. The actor’s first-look poster was released as a New Year surprise by the film’s leading man, Yash. While the poster drew immediate attention, it was Geetu Mohandas’s deeply personal note about Nayanthara that truly set conversations rolling.

In her note, Geetu spoke about the rare and organic connection between Nayanthara and the character she inhabits, suggesting that ‘Toxic’ will introduce audiences to a side of the actor they have not witnessed before. With Nayanthara joining the cast after Kiara Advani and Huma Qureshi, the film now brings together a formidable ensemble of leading women.

“We all know Nayan as a celebrated star with a commanding screen presence and a career that spans two decades. But in ‘Toxic’, audiences will witness a talent that had been quietly waiting to erupt. I wanted to present her in a way she has never been seen before,” Geetu wrote. She added that as filming progressed, it became clear how closely Nayanthara’s own personality resonated with the spirit of Ganga. “It was not imitation, it was alignment. The depth, honesty, restraint, and emotional clarity she brought were not layered performances. They were qualities she already possessed. Through her, I found my Ganga. And quite unexpectedly, I also found a dear friend. I love you, Nayanthara.”

The collaboration between Geetu Mohandas and Kannada superstar Yash has raised expectations of a landmark cinematic experience. Mounted on a grand scale, ‘Toxic’ is positioned as an action drama that places equal emphasis on emotional weight and performance. The makers have hinted that the film will move beyond the template of a conventional mass entertainer, staying true to its subtitle, ‘A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups’.

Scheduled for a theatrical release on March 19, 2026, ‘Toxic’ is widely expected to make a strong impact at the Indian box office. The film features cinematography by National Award winner Rajeev Ravi, music composed by Ravi Basrur, and editing by Ujwal Kulkarni.