Yash, known for his role in the KGF films, is set to take on a new challenge by directing a film after his upcoming project, "Toxic." This move signals a significant shift for the actor, who has largely been in front of the camera since his breakout success. The news comes as "Toxic" itself faces ongoing speculation and a revised release schedule.
Project Genesis and Development
The film Toxic, a project starring Yash, was officially announced on December 9, 2023, by KVN Productions and Yash's Monster Mind Creations. This followed earlier reports in April 2023 suggesting a collaboration between Yash and filmmaker Geetu Mohandas.
The project was tentatively titled Yash 19 before the official announcement of "Toxic."
Production was reportedly slated to begin in June 2023.
Cinematographer Rajeev Ravi, Geetu Mohandas's husband, joined the film's technical crew in January 2024.
Kiara Advani was announced as the female lead in April 2024, marking her Kannada debut.
Filming began in Bengaluru in August 2024.
Shifting Roles and Fan Reception
While "Toxic" has a significant cast, including Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, and Tovino Thomas, the actor's future plans are generating notable discussion.

Yash's directorial aspirations: A report from Bollywood Hungama suggests Yash intends to direct a film after "Toxic." This report also states Yash views himself as a "technician" on "Toxic," giving full credit to Geetu Mohandas as the "true and rightful helmer."
Fan concerns: Some fans have expressed questions about whether a female director could effectively capture Yash's "powerful mass image," according to M9.news. This sentiment arose despite Yash's choice to work with Mohandas, a filmmaker with fewer large commercial hits to her name, as noted by Gulte.
Production Challenges and Release Updates
"Toxic" has experienced delays and has seen its release date adjusted.
Original release date: The film was initially scheduled for release on April 10, 2025.
Revised release date: It is now set for worldwide theatrical release on March 19, 2026, coinciding with Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, and Eid-al-Fitr. This postponement was attributed to "delayed shooting and production issues."
Speculation and uncertainty: Fresh speculations about the project's progress continue, leading to fan disappointment, as reported by Gulte.
"Toxic" Narrative and Themes
The film is set in Goa during a past era and centers on a drug cartel. It is described as a "Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups" with themes of "danger, obsession, and moral decay."
Yash is reportedly playing a dual role.
The film is slated for release in multiple languages, including Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and English.
The first look glimpse, released on January 8, 2026 (Yash's 40th birthday), garnered significant attention, with over 200 million views across platforms within 24 hours.
Expert Insights and Observations
"Yash sees himself as just another technician on the team. He considers Geetu Mohandas the true and rightful helmer of the project."— Bollywood Hungama
"Fans were not fully impressed, with some questioning whether a female director could effectively present Yash’s powerful mass image."— M9.news
Conclusion and Future Implications
Yash's declared intention to direct following "Toxic" marks a potential turning point in his career, suggesting a move toward a more active role in filmmaking beyond acting. The ongoing developments and shifts in production for "Toxic" highlight the complexities of large-scale film projects. The film's eventual release in March 2026 will be closely watched, not only for its content but also for what it signifies about Yash's evolving professional path and his departure from the KGF saga.
Sources
Bollywood Hungama: https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/toxic-yash-steps-away-kgf-plans-directorial-debut/
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toxic(2026film))
Gulte: https://www.gulte.com/movienews/378669/whats-happening-behind-yashs-toxic
M9.news: https://www.m9.news/movienews/yash-toxic-film-after-kgf-success/
Celebsyde: https://celebsyde.com/tv-movies/from-kgf-to-toxic/
The New Indian Express: https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/kannada/2024/Aug/09/yash-and-geethu-mohandas-start-filming-for-toxic-in-bengaluru-2670168.html
ABP Live: https://news.abplive.com/web-stories/entertainment/yash-turns-journey-stardom-films-toxic-kgf-ramayana-1742601