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Lyricist Raj Shekhar has opened up about his experience writing 'Tabaahi' for Yash's upcoming film ' Toxic : A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups'. After winning hearts with the romantic track 'Tum Ho Toh' from ' Saiyaara ', Shekhar reunited with composer-singer Vishal Mishra for the intense number. In a conversation with Variety India, he spoke about Yash's creative inputs, collaborating with director Geetu Mohandas and the trust he shares with Vishal Mishra.

How 'Tabaahi' came togetherRaj Shekhar revealed that the composition was already ready when Vishal Mishra invited him to hear it. The meeting also introduced him to Yash and Geetu Mohandas, who explained the emotional purpose the song had to serve. Recalling the process, he shared with Variety India, "I've composed a really beautiful tune. Come over, listen to it, and I want you to meet someone."

After watching portions of the film, Shekhar realised the lyrics needed to convey emotions that went beyond what the audience would see on screen.

He explained, "One thing we were all absolutely clear about was that we didn't want the song to simply subtitle or describe whatever was happening on screen. Instead, we wanted the lyrics to explore a deeper emotional layer, something that the visuals alone couldn't express."

Yash's creative visionSpeaking about Yash's involvement, the lyricist described the actor as someone who knows exactly what he wants while remaining open to suggestions from his collaborators.

He said, "Yash was clear that the song should strengthen the bond he already shares with his audience. The lyrics shouldn't feel like they're talking about some abstract, distant world that people can't relate to. He wanted them to feel emotionally accessible. And he's incredibly collaborative. Very clear in what he wants, yet extremely open to ideas."

Raj Shekhar also shared advice he received from the actor during the creative process. He recalled, "He told me he wants me to retain two of my qualities. He said, 'You don't get stuck in big words. The world you create out of simpler words is special, and you should always retain that. Secondly, even when someone tells you that this is good, you keep saying, "I can do better"; that restlessness is very good for any artist.'"

Praising Yash further, he added, "He is a very, very sharp man. I have met very few people who are as sharp as he is. I told him that when this film ends, I think I will miss him and these conversations."

About 'Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups'

Directed and co-written by Geetu Mohandas, 'Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups' is an action thriller centred on the conflict between a father and his son. The film stars Yash in the lead role and features an ensemble cast that includes Nayanthara, Kiara Advani , Tara Sutaria , Akshay Oberoi, Sudev Nair , Amit Tiwari , Huma Qureshi and Rukmini Vasanth.

The film's theatrical release has been postponed more than once. It was originally scheduled to hit cinemas on March 19, 2026 before being rescheduled to June 4. The makers later decided to delay the release again to secure a better worldwide release window. After the revised plans, Toxic is now locked for a worldwide theatrical release on August 26, 2026.