Kannada actor Risheekaa Ssingh has voiced strong disapproval regarding the recently released trailer for the upcoming film ‘Toxic’. Her primary concerns revolve around the depiction of female characters and a particular scene featuring lead actor Yash. The film, which also stars prominent actresses Kiara Advani and Nayanthara, has generated considerable buzz, but its promotional content has elicited a range of responses from the audience.
The trailer, under the direction of Geetu Mohandas, has undeniably fueled anticipation for the movie’s release. However, it has simultaneously ignited a wave of criticism, particularly concerning certain visual elements and thematic undertones. Risheekaa Ssingh chose Instagram as her platform to articulate these concerns, directly addressing Yash in one of her videos.
In a scathing critique, Risheekaa Ssingh directly confronted Yash regarding a scene in the trailer where the actor appears partially nude. Her remarks were pointed and assertive, stating, “Beauty is what truly suits a woman, but respect is what truly suits a man, my boy. Why did you have to drop your pants like that you absolute monkey? You have a wife waiting at home so what’s the need for flirting with actresses? We certainly don’t support this new business of yours at all. You have women in your own life, yet you come here acting tough and talking big. Show women some proper respect or we will surely kick you out of Karnataka.” She concluded this particular video by emphatically declaring, “I am Toxic.”
Beyond her direct criticism of Yash, Risheekaa Ssingh also expressed broader concerns about the representation of women within the film’s narrative. In a separate video, she affirmed her unwavering support for the growth and international reach of Kannada cinema. She acknowledged and welcomed the ambitious nature of ‘Toxic’ as a major Kannada production featuring a Bollywood actress. However, her enthusiasm was tempered by her dissatisfaction with how women were portrayed in the trailer. She elaborated, “I want Kannada cinema to grow and reach an international audience. I am happy that a big film like Toxic is being made in Kannada and that a Bollywood actress is also part of it. But I did not like the way women have been portrayed in the trailer.”
Her criticism extended specifically to the treatment of Kiara Advani, questioning the decision to cast a Bollywood actress only for her to be presented in what Ssingh perceived as an unfavorable light. She highlighted the presence of multiple female actors in the film, asking, “There are five female actors in the film. Has even one of them been shown beautifully or in a complimentary manner? Why was Kiara Advani brought from Bollywood to be portrayed in such a manner?”
It is worth noting that ‘Toxic’ has faced scrutiny regarding its themes and portrayal of female characters even prior to the release of its full trailer. The initial teaser had already sparked discussions and debates. Filmmaker Geetu Mohandas had previously addressed some of these conversations through an Instagram note, where she cryptically wrote, “Chilling while people figure out female pleasure, consent, women playing systems, etc., etc.” With its scheduled release on August 26, 2026, ‘Toxic’ continues to generate significant discussion and anticipation, both positive and critical.
