BY SACNILK TEAM

Mumbai, February 26 - Actors Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna are now officially married. The much-loved star couple tied the knot in an intimate wedding ceremony in Udaipur, Rajasthan, putting an end to years of speculation surrounding their relationship. The wedding took place on Wednesday in the presence of close family members and a select circle of friends, keeping the celebrations private and away from media glare. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Soon after the ceremony, Vijay and Rashmika took to social media to share their first pictures as husband and wife. The wedding photos quickly went viral, with fans showering the couple with love and congratulatory messages. Rashmika looked radiant in a traditional silk saree paired with heritage jewellery, while Vijay complemented her elegance in classic South Indian attire. The images captured tender moments from the rituals, along with candid smiles that reflected the couple's happiness. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rashmika Mandanna (@rashmika_mandanna) According to reports, the wedding followed traditional Telugu Hindu customs, with additional ceremonies held to honour Rashmika's cultural roots. The choice of Udaipur as the wedding destination added a regal charm to the celebrations, with the scenic backdrop of Rajasthan enhancing the grandeur of the occasion despite its intimate scale. Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna, who have shared screen space and a strong fan following together, have long been one of the most talked-about pairs in the industry. With their wedding now official and pictures out in the open, the couple begins a new chapter of their lives amid immense love and blessings from fans across the country. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The first six days of theatrical performance indicate that Do Deewane Seher Mein (DDSM) has found it difficult to sustain its momentum after a modest opening Friday. Despite having recognizable names like Siddhant Chaturvedi and Mrunal Thakur, the film witnessed a massive 59% crash on its first Monday and has continued to slide since then. On the other hand, Assi started lower on Day 1 but showed significant jumps over the weekend and has maintained a much better hold throughout the week. By the end of Day 6, Assi had already surpassed DDSM in terms of daily net earnings, showing better resilience in mass circuits. Looking at the cumulative figures by the end of Wednesday, Assi has officially pulled ahead of Do Deewane Seher Mein in the total first-week race. As of the completion of Day 6, Assi stands at a total India Net collection of ₹ 6.35 crore, showing a more resilient weekday hold despite starting with a lower opening day. In contrast, the Siddhant Chaturvedi and Mrunal Thakur starrer Do Deewane Seher Mein has reached a total of ₹ 5.80 crore in the same period. While the lead is only about 55 lakhs, the trajectory indicates that Assi is finding slightly better favor with mass audiences, whereas the urban romance of DDSM is struggling to convert interest into solid footfalls. Do Deewane Seher Mein vs Assi - Daily Net ComparisonDAYDO DEEWANE SEHER MEINASSI (HINDI)Day 1 [Friday]₹ 1.25 Cr₹ 1.00 CrDay 2 [Saturday]₹ 1.50 Cr₹ 1.60 CrDay 3 [Sunday]₹ 1.45 Cr₹ 1.60 CrDay 4 [Monday]₹ 0.60 Cr₹ 0.70 CrDay 5 [Tuesday]₹ 0.55 Cr₹ 0.85 CrDay 6 [Wednesday]₹ 0.45 Cr₹ 0.60 CrDay 7 [Thursday]*₹ 0.23 Cr (Live)₹ 0.31 Cr (Live) (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   This downward trend is a notable setback for the lead cast of Do Deewane Seher Mein. Siddhant Chaturvedi, whose previous top-grossing solo-led film was Phone Bhoot (₹12.81 Cr Net), is finding it hard to reach similar numbers with this project. Similarly, Mrunal Thakur, who has seen massive success in the past with films like Super 30 (₹147.39 Cr Net), has not seen a similar turnout for this urban romance. Director Ravi Udyawar, who previously delivered the critically acclaimed Mom (which earned an Average verdict with ₹37 Cr lifetime), is also witnessing a much tougher run with this outing as it heads toward a Flop verdict. As of today, Day 7, the live tracking shows that Assi continues to hold a slight edge over DDSM, specifically in single-screen markets. However, the overall business for both films remains on the lower side. With several new movies arriving in theaters tomorrow, both films are expected to see a sharp reduction in their screen counts and show timings. Unless there is a miraculous jump in night show collections today or an unexpected second-weekend hold, both Do Deewane Seher Mein and Assi will likely end their theatrical runs much sooner than the makers had anticipated.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Mumbai, February 26 - The Kerala Story 2 has hit a major roadblock just a day ahead of its scheduled theatrical debut, as the Kerala High Court has imposed an interim stay on the film's release. The order came following petitions that questioned the certification granted to the film and raised concerns over its subject matter, leading to uncertainty around its planned release date. According to the court, the objections primarily revolve around the use of the state's name in the title and whether the film's content could potentially create social disharmony. The bench observed, at a prima facie level, that the certification process required closer scrutiny, especially in cases dealing with sensitive themes. As a result, the court felt it necessary to pause the release until these concerns are examined in detail. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The interim stay is expected to remain in force for around 15 days or until further hearings are concluded. During this period, the Central Board of Film Certification has been asked to revisit the complaints related to the film and clarify whether existing guidelines were adequately followed before granting clearance. The court also advised the makers to refrain from releasing the film in any form until the matter is resolved. Meanwhile, the makers of The Kerala Story 2 are reportedly exploring legal options to seek relief from the stay order, including the possibility of approaching a higher bench. With the film already surrounded by controversy even before release, all eyes are now on the next hearing, which will determine whether the sequel can make its way to cinemas as planned or face a longer delay. Stay tuned...

BY SACNILK TEAM

Mumbai, February 26 - Director Sriram Raghavan's much-talked-about war drama Ikkis has made its way to OTT after its theatrical run earlier this year. The film, which marks the big-screen debut of Agastya Nanda and features Dharmendra in a special role, has been generating steady interest ever since its release, especially because of its rooted storytelling and historical backdrop. For viewers waiting to watch the film from the comfort of their homes, Ikkis is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video. The film was first made available on the platform as a rental option earlier this month, but from February 26, 2026, it has become part of the regular Prime subscription, allowing subscribers to stream it without any additional cost. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Produced by Maddock Films, Ikkis is a biographical war drama based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, one of the youngest recipients of India's Param Vir Chakra. Set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the film focuses on courage, sacrifice, and the human cost of conflict, presented in a restrained and realistic manner. Apart from Agastya Nanda in the lead role, Ikkis also stands out as one of the final on-screen appearances of Dharmendra, adding emotional weight to the narrative. With its OTT release now confirmed, the film is expected to find a wider audience and gain renewed attention among viewers who missed it during its theatrical run. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

According to the official investor presentation, Rocking Star Yash's upcoming actioner, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups, is now confirmed for an Experience it in IMAX release on March 19, 2026.This move ensures that the Geetu Mohandas directorial will be a premium visual attraction, particularly in the Indian market where Yash commands a massive large-format following. Even more significant is the inclusion of Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana: Part 1, which has been officially recognized as a Filmed For IMAX release. This prestigious distinction confirms that the film is being shot with IMAX-certified cameras to offer an expanded aspect ratio, positioning the Indian mythological epic on par with global Hollywood spectacles. The earnings call also provided a detailed look at the 2026 Hollywood schedule, revealing a major bottleneck for premium screens in late 2026. Notably, Avengers: Doomsday is confirmed to be losing its domestic (USA) IMAX exclusivity to Denis Villeneuve's Dune: Part Three. Reports indicate that Dune 3 has secured a three-week exclusive IMAX window starting December 18, 2026, forcing the Avengers sequel to wait for a full IMAX rollout in the domestic market.Similarly, the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day is expected to face screen-sharing challenges due to a pre-existing exclusive window for the film Odyssey. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   In a landmark decision for streaming-led content, IMAX and Netflix have officially agreed on a specialized theatrical window for Greta Gerwig's The Chronicles of Narnia.The film is slated for a two-week exclusive IMAX run starting Thanksgiving 2026, followed by a total four-week theatrical window before its digital premiere on Christmas.This strategy marks a significant evolution in how IMAX partners with streamers to create eventized theatrical moments. Meanwhile, for fans concerned about the absence of certain titles like Prabhas's Varanasi from the 2027 list, the company clarified that all current slates are expected and non-exhaustive, with more titles to be added as production and distribution agreements are finalized. On the business front, IMAX reported its best financial year in history, crossing a record $1.28 billion in global box office in 2025 and projecting a rise to $1.4 billion for 2026.India remains a critical growth engine for the corporation, with flagship theater upgrades confirmed for locations like Koramangala IMAX (Bengaluru) and Palazzo IMAX (Chennai). With a global backlog of 434 system installs and over 2,300 Open Zones identified for future expansion, the platform is doubling down on its Filmed For IMAX initiative, which will feature at least 12 major releases worldwide in 2026.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

The anticipation for Aditya Dhar's high-octane spy-thriller, Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge, has reached a fever pitch, transcending international borders. In a recent detailed conversation with journalist Sonia Shenoy, veteran actor R. Madhavan—who plays a pivotal role in the franchise—revealed an extraordinary trend emerging from the Middle East. According to Madhavan, a significant number of fans from the UAE are planning to fly down to India specifically to witness the film on the big screen upon its release on March 19, 2026. This theatrical tourism is largely driven by the potential ban or heavy censorship the film might face in the Gulf regions, combined with the desire for a massive community viewing experience that home streaming cannot replicate. Madhavan's insights also shed light on the evolving tastes of the modern Indian audience. He noted that the younger generation has moved past the traditional, repetitive tropes of India-Pakistan war dramas and freedom struggle narratives. The actor asserted that today's viewers are bored of the repetition and are seeking gritty, high-concept storytelling that feels fresh and contemporary. He credited director Aditya Dhar for cracking this code, stating that the Dhurandhar series serves as a full stop to old-school cinematic clichés, providing the kind of sophisticated action and good content that compels people to cross oceans just to catch a show in a packed Indian cinema hall. Now, for Dhurandhar 2, they are actually planning their business meetings around March 19, Madhavan stated. He emphasized that while viewers in the UAE could theoretically watch the film via home streaming or IPTV, they are craving the community experience of a packed cinema hall. He brilliantly compared the difference to playing Dandiya—noting that playing it alone in front of a TV can never match the adrenaline of being on a ground with thousands of people. According to him, this is the power of event cinema that drives fans to cross borders. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The biggest question in the trade circuit is whether Dhurandhar 2 can rewrite history by surpassing the Day 1 record of Shah Rukh Khan's Jawan, which stands at approximately ₹75 crore net (all languages). Early tracking suggests that despite the clash with Yash's Toxic, the Ranveer Singh-starrer is comfortably positioned to challenge this milestone.While Toxic is expected to dominate the South, Dhurandhar 2 is projected to sweep the North Indian markets (Delhi-UP, Bihar, and Punjab) with a massive screen count. Trade experts believe that with the Sequel Advantage and the massive momentum from the first part—which grossed over ₹1,300 crore worldwide—a ₹75-80 crore opening is well within reach, potentially making it the biggest opening day for an original Hindi franchise. Scheduled for a worldwide release on March 19, 2026, Dhurandhar 2 is positioned as the final chapter of a duology that began with the record-breaking success of the first film in late 2025. Reprising his role as the formidable lead, Ranveer Singh is joined by a powerhouse cast including Sanjay Dutt and Arjun Rampal. The film is headed for a direct clash with Yash's Toxic, creating one of the biggest box office windows in Indian history. With the backing of Jio Studios and B62 Studios, and the massive international buzz highlighted by Madhavan, Dhurandhar 2 is poised to shatter opening day records both domestically and in the overseas market.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Rocking Star Yash is set to make a thunderous return to the silver screen with his highly anticipated actioner, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups. As the film gears up for its global theatrical debut on March 19, 2026, the makers have officially finalized a massive distribution network across Tamil Nadu. To ensure a record-breaking opening and maximum screen penetration, KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations have partnered with a powerhouse group of distributors. Think Studios will handle the prestigious Chennai City circle, while White Nights through Trident Arts has secured the Chengalpet region. Other key territories including Coimbatore, Madurai, Trichy, and Salem have been divided among S Picture and Five Star K. Senthil Release, signaling a segmented and aggressive rollout strategy in the state. According to an exclusive report by The Hollywood Reporter India, Toxic has been signed for a landmark distribution deal in Tamil Nadu valued at a staggering ₹63 crore advance on a commission basis. This marks one of the most significant deals in the territory in recent years. Unlike the traditional model where a single distributor takes over the rights for the entire state, Toxic will employ a network of multiple powerhouse distributors. This strategic move is expected to not only maximize the film's reach across both single screens and multiplexes but also help manage the massive expectations surrounding the Yash-starrer. The territorial division is meticulously planned to secure total statewide dominance. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter India, the prestigious Chennai City territory will be handled by Swarup Reddy's Think Studios, while the high-revenue Chengalpet area will be distributed by Trident Ravi’s White Nights. The Coimbatore, North and South Arcot, Tirunelveli, and Kanyakumari belts will be overseen by S Picture Srinivasan, while the key circuits of Madurai, Ramanad, Trichy, Thanjavur, and Salem will be managed by 5 Star Senthil. Expressing their enthusiasm for the collaboration, the team of Tamil Nadu distribution partners stated that the love Yash has already garnered in the state is incredible. They noted that Toxic is currently one of the most anticipated Indian films and expressed their thrill in coming on board a project of such scale and ambition. The success of Yash's previous blockbuster, K.G.F: Chapter 2, is being cited as a primary factor behind the massive ₹63 crore advance, with trade analysts predicting a historic opening day in the Tamil market. The Takeover continues🔥Four powerhouse distributors join forces to unleash #Toxic acrossTamil Nadu: @ThinkStudiosInd#SPictureFilms#WhiteNightsEntertainment through @tridentartsoffl#5StarSenthil#Toxic in cinemas worldwide from 19.03.2026.#ToxicTheMovie#ToxicOnMarch19th… pic.twitter.com/PemSYKjZrW— TOXIC (@Toxic_themovie) February 26, 2026 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Geetu Mohandas, Toxic is described as a gritty period gangster saga set in Goa between the 1940s and 1970s. The film features an elite ensemble cast, with Yash reportedly playing a multi-layered character. He is joined by leading ladies Kiara Advani and Nayanthara, with the latter rumored to play a pivotal, high-stakes role. The technical department is equally formidable, featuring music by KGF and Salaar composer Ravi Basrur and high-octane action sequences choreographed by Hollywood veteran JJ Perry. The blend of a grounded, fairy tale narrative style with explosive commercial elements has positioned Toxic as a unique offering in the Indian action genre. The chosen release date of March 19, 2026, places Toxic in the middle of a historic box office window. By arriving during the festive week of Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, and Eid-al-Fitr, the film is poised to benefit from a long holiday weekend that could drive unprecedented collections. However, it also sets the stage for a massive box office showdown with Ranveer Singh's spy-thriller Dhurandhar 2, which is scheduled for the same day. Despite the competition, the locking in of major distributors across all regions suggests that the makers of Toxic are confident in securing a lion's share of screens. Stay tuned to Sacnilk for more real-time updates on Toxic box office tracking, screen counts, and advance booking reports.

BY CHRISTA LINCY

In a significant move aimed at safeguarding the theatrical business, the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce has officially proposed a mandatory 8-week OTT release window for all Telugu films. The proposal was discussed during a high-level Executive Committee (EC) meeting held recently, where members expressed growing concern over the dwindling theatrical run of films due to early digital premieres. This rule, if implemented, would mean that no Telugu film can stream on any OTT platform until at least 56 days after its initial theatrical release, a move that trade experts believe is essential to bring audiences back to cinema halls. The primary motivation behind this proposal is to combat the wait-for-OTT mindset that has significantly impacted the box office performance of mid-range and small-budget films. Currently, while most big-ticket Indian films aim for a longer window, many Telugu releases have been arriving on digital platforms within just 3 to 6 weeks of their release. Exhibitors and distributors argue that this short gap kills the long-term prospects of a movie, as viewers often choose to skip the theatre knowing the film will be available on their mobile screens in less than a month. Standardizing the 8-week rule is seen as a way to ensure that the theatrical experience remains the primary source of revenue for the industry. While the proposal has been cleared by the Film Chamber's Executive Committee, it is not yet a binding regulation. The next crucial step involves detailed consultations with the Telugu Film Producers Council and the Telugu Film Producers Guild. These bodies represent the production houses that often rely on lucrative early-window deals from streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar to recover their investments quickly. Reaching a consensus between the exhibitors' need for a long run and the producers' need for immediate liquidity will be the deciding factor in whether this rule becomes a permanent industry standard. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   The Film Chamber pointed towards the massive success of recent global blockbusters as a precedent for this rule. In the post-pandemic era, only a few films, most notably Prabhas's Kalki 2898 AD and Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2: The Rule, have strictly adhered to the full 8-week window across all languages. The sustained box office collections of these films over several weeks have proven to the trade that a delayed digital release can significantly boost a film's total theatrical earnings. By implementing this rule across the board, the Chamber hopes to replicate this long-tail success for a wider variety of films. However, the mandatory window poses a unique challenge for small and medium-budget films. For many smaller producers, the revenue generated from selling digital rights for a 3-week window is often higher than what they might earn from a prolonged theatrical run. If the 8-week rule becomes mandatory, OTT platforms may reduce their acquisition prices, potentially affecting the financial viability of smaller projects. As the Producers Council and the Guild prepare to meet, the industry is waiting to see if a middle ground can be reached to protect both the theatre owners and the independent producers.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Los Angeles, February 26 - The highly anticipated Malayalam crime suspense thriller Drishyam 3, starring Mohanlal and directed by Jeethu Joseph, has secured a massive theatrical deal in overseas markets. Even before its theatrical debut, the film has generated strong traction among international distributors, reaffirming the enduring global appeal of the Drishyam franchise. According to trade reports, the North American theatrical rights of Drishyam 3 have been sold for a huge 10 crore, making it the biggest for a Malayalam film in the market. The USA rights are valued at around 6 crore, while the Canada rights have fetched approximately 4 crore, highlighting the robust demand for the film across key diaspora-driven territories. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The distribution responsibilities in North America have been clearly divided, with Prathyangira Cinemas acquiring the USA theatrical rights and Hamsini Entertainments taking charge of the Canadian release. Both distributors are known for handling major South Indian releases overseas, ensuring a wide and strategic theatrical rollout for the film. The strong North America deal reflects the massive recall value of the Drishyam brand, which has enjoyed success across languages and markets over the years. With expectations already running high, Drishyam 3 is shaping up as one of the most significant Malayalam releases internationally, setting the stage for a potentially strong overseas box office performance upon its release on April 2nd. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

While the back-to-back release of three tentpole films usually sparks concerns regarding screen sharing and box office cannibalization, director Harish Shankar maintains an optimistic outlook. Speaking exclusively to Variety, Shankar emphasized that he views this period as a celebration of cinema rather than a cutthroat race. He drew parallels to the festive Pongal/Sankranti season, where multiple big-budget films often thrive simultaneously, stating that the industry should move past viewing fellow filmmakers as rivals. One of the primary reasons the Ustaad Bhagat Singh team remains confident is the distinct nature of the film compared to its predecessors. Harish Shankar noted that based on the content released so far, Toxic and Dhurandhar 2 belong to entirely different genres. While Toxic is a period gangster saga and Dhurandhar 2 is a high-octane spy thriller, Ustaad Bhagat Singh is expected to be a massy commercial entertainer. Shankar told Variety that their audience base is unique, ensuring that there is enough room for all three films to find their footing. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   Beyond the numbers, the filmmaker highlighted a broader shift in the industry's mindset. He asserted that the era of language barriers is over and that every film should be viewed through the lens of Indian Cinema. Even though Ustaad Bhagat Singh may not be positioned as a primary pan-India project like Toxic, Shankar expressed his deep respect for all filmmakers across the country, wishing success to every major release in that window. The excitement surrounding Ustaad Bhagat Singh is largely driven by the reunion of Pawan Kalyan and Harish Shankar. The duo previously collaborated on the blockbuster Gabbar Singh, which remains an industry hit and a fan favorite. This upcoming project marks their return after over a decade, promising to showcase the Power Star in a magnetic, high-energy persona that fans have been eagerly waiting for. Set to hit the big screens on March 26, 2026, Ustaad Bhagat Singh features a stellar supporting cast including Sreeleela, Raashii Khanna, Ashutosh Rana, Nawab Shah, B.S. Avinash, Gautami, and Chammak Chandra. With the film arriving exactly one week after the March 19 releases, the industry is bracing for a historic two-week run that could potentially break multiple box office records.

BY SACNILK TEAM

Los Angeles, February 26 - Director Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana reportedly had its first internal test screening at the Cinemark Playa Vista theatre in Los Angeles, nearly nine months ahead of its planned theatrical release. According to multiple media reports, the screening was held for a select, invite-only audience aged 18-60, marking the first time a rough cut of the film was showcased outside the core creative team. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Early feedback emerging from the screening has been largely positive, with strong praise directed at the film's visual scale, VFX quality, and rooted storytelling. Reports suggest that despite being an unfinished cut, the film impressed viewers with its ambition and emotional treatment of the epic. The makers are said to be using these reactions primarily to assess technical finesse and tonal consistency, rather than to implement any major narrative changes. It is important to note that this was not a public test screening, and the film is still undergoing extensive post-production, particularly on VFX-heavy sequences. The makers are reportedly in no hurry to release promotional material and are prioritising refinement over timelines. An official teaser or announcement is expected only after the team is fully satisfied with the final output, as expectations surrounding Ramayana continue to soar. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Produced by Prime Focus Studio with Monster Mind Creations, Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, Yash as Ravana, and Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman, among many others. Adding to the global scale of the project is the collaboration between music maestros A. R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer, who have joined hands to compose the score. The historical epic will be released in two parts, with first part scheduled to release on Diwali this year, followed by the second part on Diwali 2027. Stay tuned...

BY CHRISTA LINCY

Rocking Star Yash is all set to redefine the cinematic experience with his next ambitious project, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups. In a massive update for cinema enthusiasts and trade analysts alike, the film has been officially confirmed for an IMAX release. This news ensures that the period gangster saga will be a visual powerhouse, designed to be witnessed on the largest screens possible. The confirmation came through IMAX's official investor presentation release slate, which listed Toxic as a key part of its upcoming global rollout, signaling a massive premium-format push across India and international markets. Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Geetu Mohandas, Toxic is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on March 19, 2026. The makers have strategically locked in this date to capitalize on a massive four-day holiday weekend, coinciding with major festivals like Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, and Eid-al-Fitr. This timing, combined with the IMAX branding, is expected to provide the film with a record-shattering start at the box office, particularly in metropolitan centers where premium formats dominate collections. The film boasts one of the most elite ensemble casts in recent Indian cinema, reflecting its pan-India appeal. Yash will lead the charge, reportedly playing a dual-layered role that involves characters named Raya and Ticket. Joining him on screen are some of the biggest names in the industry, including Kiara Advani and Nayanthara in pivotal roles. The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria, Rukmini Vasanth, Akshay Oberoi, and Sudev Nair, making it one of the most star-studded productions currently under development. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({})   Set against the backdrop of Goa between the 1940s and 1970s, Toxic is described as a fairy tale for grown-ups that explores the gritty rise of a criminal empire. The narrative follows the transition from the colonial era to the emergence of local crime syndicates, delving into deep themes of power and betrayal. To bring this vision to life, the production is mounted on a reported staggering budget of approximately ₹600 crore. The technical team includes Ravi Basrur for music, Rajeev Ravi for cinematography, and Hollywood action director JJ Perry, known for his work on John Wick, who will choreograph the film's high-octane sequences. On the business front, Toxic is already creating history with its distribution deals. The theatrical rights for the Telugu states (Andhra Pradesh and Telangana) have reportedly been acquired by Dil Raju's Sri Venkateswara Creations for a record ₹120 crore. Meanwhile, Anil Thadani's AA Films will handle the distribution in North India and Nepal, while Phars Film has secured the overseas rights for nearly ₹105 crore. These record-breaking numbers reflect the massive trade confidence in Yash following the global success of the KGF franchise. As the industry looks ahead to March 2026, Toxic is currently positioned for a historic box office showdown. The film is expected to clash with other major release, that includes Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar 2. However, with its IMAX confirmation and the Rocking Star factor, Toxic remains one of the most formidable contenders for the top spot.