Controversy Surrounds Teaser for geetu Mohandas’ “Toxic“
The teaser for Geetu Mohandas’ upcoming film Toxic, starring Kareena Kapoor Khan, has sparked controversy adn drawn complaints regarding its content.
The Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) Women’s Wing filed a complaint with the Karnataka State Women’s Commission, alleging the teaser contains “obscene” and “explicit” visuals that negatively impact the social well-being of women and children and undermine Kannada cultural values.The Commission subsequently requested the Central Board of film Certification (CBFC) to take action.
However, the CBFC clarified that, as the teaser was released exclusively on YouTube, it falls outside their jurisdiction. CBFC certification is only mandatory for films and trailers intended for theatrical release; online promotional content on digital platforms is not currently subject to their review.
Despite the CBFC’s position, a formal complaint was also filed with the board by social activist Dinesh Kallahalli. His complaint, addressed to CBFC chairperson Prasoon Joshi, describes scenes in the teaser as “grossly obscene, sexually explicit, and vulgar.” Kallahalli expressed concern over the widespread circulation of the teaser on social media, possibly exposing minors to legally and socially harmful content.
Director Geetu Mohandas responded to the criticism with a cryptic Instagram Story, stating: “Chilling while people figure out female pleasure, consent, women playing systems, etc., etc.” The teaser has generated meaningful discussion online, with some questioning the relevance of the scenes while others, like filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma, have praised Mohandas’ boldness.
Toxic also features a prominent ensemble cast including Nayanthara, Rukmini Vasanth, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi, and Tara Sutaria. The film is scheduled for release on March 19th, coinciding with the release of Dhurandhar Part 2.
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