Mumbai: The expectations of the next movie of Yash, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups are still increasing, with another eye-catching character poster released by the makers. This time, the spotlight is on Rukmini Vasanth, who has been introduced as Mellisa, a character that instantly stands out for her glamour, mystery, and quiet intensity.
In the poster released recently, Mellisa is in the center of a glamorous party scene of the 1960s. Since previous teases revealed Kiara Advani as Nadia, Huma Qureshi as Elizabeth, Nayanthara as Ganga, and Tara Sutaria as Rebecca, the addition of Mellisa to the cast further solidifies the ensemble and makes Toxic among the most discussed releases of 2026.
Rukmini Vasanth’s Powerful First Look as Mellisa
The newly released poster places Mellisa in the middle of a lavish 1960s-style party setting. The background is crowded with people who are dancing, consuming alcohol, and celebrating but the character of Rukmini Vasanth cuts through the scene with a clear, focused mind and calm resolve. Her presence is dominating and commanding as though she is not affected by the craziness surrounding her.
Rukmini is seen wearing a deep green, body-hugging gown with a dramatic high slit. The outfit is elegant, stylish, and slightly dangerous, perfectly matching the dark tone of the film. Her makeup is clean and minimal, with defined eyes and nude lips that give her a cold, serious expression. Her hair is in a nice updo with soft fringe cuts, which gives it a vintage appeal that befits the time period presented in the poster.
The setting plays an important role in shaping the mood. The use of warm golden lighting, smoky shadows and a red carpet on the floor beneath her feet give the impression of power, temptation and secrecy. When everybody seems to be lost in the celebration, Mellisa seems to be somebody who owns the room without uttering a word.
Director Geetu Mohandas Praises Rukmini Vasanth
Director Geetu Mohandas also shared her admiration for Rukmini Vasanth after the poster reveal. Taking to her Instagram stories, she praised the actress for her thoughtful approach to acting. Geetu highlighted that Rukmini does not just perform a role but deeply processes it, asking questions out of curiosity rather than doubt. This admiration also becomes another indication that Mellisa is a multi-faceted and significant character in the narrative.
Rukmini Vasanth’s Journey Across Industries
Rukmini Vasanth went on to make her film debut in 2019 with her Kannada debut Birbal Trilogy. Her work on the two-part romantic drama, Sapta Saagaradaache Ello Side A and Side B, won her widespread recognition and received her the Filmfare Critics Award in Best Actress Kannada in 2023.
Her filmography also includes titles like Baanadariyalli, Bagheera, and Bhairathi Ranagal. She made her Telugu debut with Appudo Ippudo Eppudo and stepped into Tamil cinema in 2025 with Ace and Madharaasi. Her transformation into Mellisa is also more dramatic since she has recently appeared as Princess Kanakavathi in the Rishab Shetty film Kantara: Chapter 1.
Toxic Builds a Dark and Mature Fairytale
The poster of Mellisa clearly reflects the theme of Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups. It is not a classic fairytale, it is a dark, intense, and mature story full of power games, emotional core, and secrets. The fact that Rukmini Vasanth looks directly to the camera indicates that Mellisa is not an ordinary character of the background but a character that will play the key role in shaping the direction of the story.
With each character reveal, Toxic continues to build intrigue and excitement. The introduction of Rukmini Vasanth as Mellisa brings another intriguing twist to the puzzle as fans look forward to see how these mighty characters will incorporate themselves in the ambitious movie world created by Yash.
Also Read | Tara Sutaria’s First Look Unveiled as Rebecca in Yash’s Toxic
