The teaser for Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups, the highly anticipated film starring Kannada actor Yash, has sparked legal controversy days after its release, drawing complaints over allegedly explicit and morally offensive scenes.
Social activist Dinesh Kallahalli has lodged a formal complaint with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), asserting that the teaser contains “grossly obscene, sexually explicit and vulgar” content that could harm public morality and negatively influence minors. The complaint, addressed to CBFC chairperson Prasoon Joshi, also argues that the visuals currently circulating on social media exceed constitutional protections for freedom of expression and violate censorship norms under the Cinematograph Act and CBFC guidelines.
Separately, the Aam Aadmi Party’s women’s wing in Karnataka filed a grievance with the Karnataka State Women’s Commission, objecting specifically to a suggestive car scene in the teaser and urging authorities to intervene. The Commission has written to the CBFC seeking a review and appropriate action, including withdrawal or modification of the clip.
While critics contend the teaser lacks age-related warnings and degrades societal values, the producers and CBFC have not yet publicly responded. Notably, promotional teasers released online do not legally require CBFC clearance, and the board has said it has not received certification submissions for Toxic’s promotional material so far.
The film, directed by Geetu Mohandas and featuring an ensemble cast, is scheduled for a worldwide release on March 19, 2026.
