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Geetu Mohandas, a prominent figure in Indian cinema, has recently garnered significant attention with the release of the teaser for her upcoming film, 'Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups'. This highly anticipated project features the renowned KGF star, Yash, and has generated considerable buzz on social media, particularly given the teaser's release coinciding with Yash's birthday. The film's postponement from its initial April 10, 2025 release date further fuels public interest and speculation. Mohandas's journey to becoming a successful director is as compelling as the films she creates. Beginning her career as a child artist in the Malayalam film industry under the name Gayatri Das, she showcased her talent early on, debuting alongside legendary actor Mohanlal in 'Onnu Muthal Poojyam Vare' in 1996. This role earned her the prestigious Kerala State Film Award for Best Child Artist, a testament to her natural ability and early promise. Her subsequent roles in films like 'Akale', 'Nala Damayanthi', and 'Seetha Kalyanam' solidified her presence within the industry, showcasing her versatility and dedication to her craft. However, Mohandas’s ambitions extended beyond acting, leading her to explore her passion for filmmaking.
In 2009, Mohandas established her own production house, Unplugged, a bold step showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to independent film production. This venture served as the springboard for her directorial debut with the short film 'Kelkkunnundo'. This short film was not just a stepping stone but a triumph, winning numerous awards and gaining critical recognition. The success of 'Kelkkunnundo' was a clear indication of her directorial prowess and further cemented her position as a rising star in the film industry. The transition from acting to directing is a significant leap for any artist, requiring a different skillset and vision. However, for Mohandas, this transition was seamless, as evidenced by the critical acclaim she received for her subsequent feature film debut, 'Liar's Dice'. Released in 2013, 'Liar's Dice' was not just a commercial success but a critical darling. The film garnered international recognition, receiving widespread praise for its storytelling, direction, and technical brilliance. The accolade of being India’s official entry for the Best Foreign Film category at the Oscars further cemented its status as a landmark achievement in Indian cinema. Its success was further validated by winning two National Film Awards and several international accolades, showcasing the quality and global appeal of her work.
Following the remarkable success of 'Liar's Dice', Mohandas continued her impressive trajectory with her second feature film, 'Moothon', released in 2019. This film further established her directorial style and narrative prowess. 'Moothon' similarly received widespread critical acclaim and festival recognition, culminating in the prestigious Global Filmmaking Award at the Sundance Film Festival. This achievement is a hallmark of exceptional filmmaking, showcasing Mohandas's ability to create cinematic experiences that resonate on a global scale. Now, with 'Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups', Mohandas is poised to reach new heights in her filmmaking career. The film promises to be a visually stunning and narratively complex thriller, with a star-studded cast including Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, and Huma Qureshi. Set against the backdrop of Goa during the 1950s-1970s, 'Toxic' is expected to be a high-budget production, further indicating Mohandas's growing influence and stature in the Indian film industry. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the film's premise suggests a compelling blend of action, suspense, and perhaps a touch of dark humor, consistent with the ‘fairytale for grown-ups’ tagline. The postponement of the film's release only serves to amplify the anticipation surrounding this eagerly awaited project.