Gulshan Devaiah explains why he didn’t join Yash’s Toxic, ‘just didn’t work out’

gulshan deviah toxic

Actor Gulshan Devaiah has opened up about why he ultimately did not sign on to Yash’s much-anticipated action-thriller Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups, revealing that the decision came down to scheduling conflicts and professional considerations.

Speaking to SCREEN, Gulshan said he was offered Toxic a long time back, “Geetu Mohandas and I had a long chat over this, and she really wanted me in that film, but it just didn’t work out for a variety of reasons. Mostly, I think it was scheduling, because their film was such a big film.”

He further explained, “The whole thing was in so many different parts, and I was like, I already have things going on over here, which I’m finding difficult to manage. So if I take up another one in a big franchise-level film, then it would not just work out. So, I didn’t do that.”

Earlier reports had sparked speculation online that his departure might be linked to payment issues or disagreements with the production, but Gulshan’s statement focused more on the practical side of handling multiple commitments rather than any behind-the-scenes turmoil. Some outlets had even suggested harsher disagreements, but the actor has not emphasised these aspects, instead underscoring the importance of timing and fit when choosing projects.

Toxic itself has been one of the most talked-about films of 2026, with its teaser released on Yash’s 40th birthday generating significant buzz for its gritty narrative and powerful visuals. Directed by Geetu Mohandas and headlined by Yash as Raya, the film also stars Kiara Advani, Nayanthara, Huma Qureshi, Tara Sutaria and others, and is slated for a March 19, 2026 theatrical release.