Kannada superstar Yash is set to return to the big screen after the blockbuster success of KGF: Chapter 2 with his upcoming film Toxic, scheduled for release on March 19. The film will face a major box-office clash with Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar, making the stakes particularly high for both projects.
Directed by Geetu Mohandas, Toxic has already generated significant attention following the release of its teaser, which sparked brief controversy over one scene before winning widespread appreciation from fans. The buzz around the film has now intensified due to reports surrounding its Telugu theatrical rights.
₹120 Crore Telugu Deal Under Scrutiny
Recent reports claimed that leading Telugu producer-distributor Dil Raju, through his banner Sri Venkateswara Creations, has acquired the Andhra Pradesh and Telangana theatrical rights of Toxic for a reported ₹120 crore. If true, this would be one of the largest-ever deals for a non-Telugu film in the region, making it a landmark transaction in South Indian cinema.
However, the figure has since come under serious scrutiny. Industry insiders and trade observers suggest that the reported amount may be exaggerated and floated primarily to generate pre-release hype. There has been no official confirmation from either the makers of Toxic or Sri Venkateswara Creations regarding the deal value.
Industry Doubts and Competitive Pressure
Trade analysts have questioned whether Dil Raju would risk such a large investment in a non-Telugu film, particularly at a time when the Telugu market is witnessing intense competition. Pawan Kalyan’s Ustad Bhagat Singh is set to release just a week after Toxic, potentially affecting box-office prospects.
Some reports also speculate that the alleged deal may include refund clauses, though such arrangements are complex and typically take time to settle. Others point out that Dil Raju’s recent distribution ventures have seen mixed results, possibly prompting a strategic gamble on Yash’s star power.
Star Cast and Market Expectations
Toxic features an ensemble cast of prominent actresses, including Kiara Advani, Tara Sutaria, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi and Rukmini Vasanth, adding to expectations across multiple language markets. With Yash’s strong fan base beyond Karnataka, the film is positioned as a pan-India release.
For now, the ₹120 crore figure remains unverified, and industry watchers are awaiting an official announcement to clarify the actual value of the Telugu rights. Whether Toxic justifies the reported numbers will ultimately be decided at the box office.
