An interview with actor Yash at CinemaCon 2026 by Collider's Steve Weintraub provided extensive details on his two major upcoming films: the epic two-part "Ramayana" and the action-packed "Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups." Yash shared insights into his roles, the creative processes, and the global aspirations for both projects.

"Ramayana" is a monumental two-part IMAX adaptation aiming to bring a 5,000-year-old Indian epic to a global audience. Starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama and Yash as the formidable Ravana, director Nitesh Tiwari's vision is to do justice to this timeless story, which explores themes of good versus evil and humanity's conduct. Yash emphasized that while it is an Indian story, its core message about human resilience and graceful living in the face of adversity holds universal appeal. Lord Rama, an avatar of Vishnu, faces immense challenges despite his royal birth, serving as an example for all.

Yash's portrayal of Ravana is a central topic, with the actor detailing his efforts to make the demon king a complex character rather than a one-dimensional villain. He believes in exploring both the good and bad qualities of such figures, acknowledging that from their perspective, they often believe themselves to be righteous. However, Ravana's actions, driven by ego and vengeance, ultimately lead him to "cross the line." Yash described the unique pressure of playing a historically significant character known to millions, contrasting it with the creative freedom of original roles like Rocky in "KGF." He aims to bring his own interpretation, making Ravana more human in his voice, body language, and overall demeanor, a challenging yet exciting endeavor given the many existing interpretations.

The film's visual spectacle is poised to be unprecedented, thanks to advancements in technology and the work of DNEG. Yash noted that previous adaptations might have been limited by the technology of their time, but this iteration can showcase grander action sequences and mythical creatures, such as the lotus-shaped Pushpaka Vimana, in ways never before possible. The filming process itself is a demanding marathon, especially with the intricate technology involved, requiring extensive rehearsals, test shoots, and meticulous attention to costumes, hair, and makeup. Despite the rigorous schedule, Yash expressed his love for the profession and the unique opportunities it offers.

"Ramayana" is deeply ingrained in India's cultural DNA, with every child in the subcontinent growing up hearing these stories, which form their belief systems and imagination. Part 1 of "Ramayana" is scheduled to open globally in theaters and IMAX during Diwali 2026, with Part 2 following during Diwali 2027, and currently still in production.

Shifting gears to his next project, Yash described "Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups" as an entirely different cinematic experience. This "crazy violent" gangster film, directed by Geethu Mohandas, is set in a curious historical era in Goa, between India's independence in 1947 and Goa's liberation from Portuguese rule in 1961. Yash highlighted the film's aim to address raw emotions, moral conflicts, and dilemmas in society through a cinematic language designed to resonate with Western audiences while maintaining its unique regional originality. Mohandas emphasizes that it's a "gangster film with the female gaze," offering layering and nuance beyond typical action movie approaches by focusing on multiple significant characters, including many great actresses.

Beyond his film projects, Yash also shared personal reflections during the interview. He discussed how a negative encounter with a rude actor in his childhood shaped his philosophy of always striving to be kind and appreciative towards fans, recognizing the significance of such interactions. He also fondly recalled the unique "single-screen theater" experience in Bangalore, where audiences celebrate cinema like a stadium, dancing and throwing coins, an atmosphere he found paralleled in the RRR screening at the Chinese Theater in Hollywood. Despite constant work on these demanding, globally-positioned films since his last release in 2022, Yash admitted to longing for a small break to spend quality time with his family after these projects conclude.