Bollywood actor Akshaye Khanna is currently enjoying the spotlight as his latest film, Dhurandhar, continues to dominate the box office. Amid this success, reports emerged that he would no longer be part of Drishyam 3. The film’s producer, Kumar Mangat Pathak, has now confirmed Akshaye’s exit and criticised the actor for leaving just 10 days before the shoot.
Akshaye Khanna Exits Drishyam 3 Just 10 Days Before Shoot
In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Kumar Mangat Pathak revealed that Akshaye Khanna had initially signed an agreement for the film after several rounds of fee negotiations. However, he backed out at the last moment, reportedly causing delays and financial losses for the production.
Producer Criticises Actor for Backing Out
The producer explained that Akshaye initially requested to wear a wig for his role, but director Abhishek Pathak convinced him that it would cause continuity issues, as the film is a sequel. Although Akshaye agreed to drop the wig demand at first, he later raised it again following advice from some people around him. Despite the director’s willingness to discuss the matter, the actor eventually stepped away from the project.
Dispute Over Wig and Script Led to Akshaye Khanna’s Exit
Kumar Mangat Pathak also commented on Akshaye’s attitude, saying, “It’s important to note that the Drishyam franchise is fronted by Ajay Devgn. Chhaava is a Vicky Kaushal film along with Akshaye. The same goes for Dhurandhar it’s Ranveer Singh’s film. If Akshaye does a solo film, it won’t even collect ₹50 crores in India. Forget the lifetime; if he thinks he has become a superstar, then he should try mounting a superstar budget film with some studio and see who greenlights his film with that kind of budget. Some actors do ensemble cast films, and after those movies become big hits, they start thinking that they are the star. That’s exactly what has happened with him. He thinks he’s a superstar now. Success has gone into his head. He told us, ‘Dhurandhar is working because of me’. He needs to understand that multiple factors worked in favour of Dhurandhar.”
The producer added that Akshaye had initially loved the Drishyam 3 script, telling the makers, “Yeh ₹500 crore ki film hai. Maine life mein aisi script nahin suni hai (This is a ₹500 crore film, I have never heard such a script in my life).” He even hugged director Abhishek and the writer after reading it. The actor received an advance and the production also paid for his costumes. Yet, 10 days before filming, he declined to work on the movie.
Jaideep Ahlawat Replaces Akshaye Khanna in Drishyam 3
Following Akshaye’s exit, the makers have replaced him with Jaideep Ahlawat, who the producer called “a better actor and a better person.” Pathak revealed that legal action has been initiated due to Akshaye’s last-minute withdrawal, and a legal notice has been sent, though the actor has not responded yet.
Legal Notice Sent to Akshaye Khanna Over Film Withdrawal
The last-minute exit of a leading actor has reportedly caused financial and logistical issues for the production team. The producer stated that he had suffered losses due to Akshaye’s behaviour and is pursuing legal remedies to recover damages.
Akshaye Khanna Shines in Dhurandhar Amid Drishyam 3 Controversy
Amid the Drishyam 3 controversy, Akshaye Khanna continues to receive acclaim for his role in Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar. The spy-action film has grossed ₹1003 crore worldwide and become Bollywood’s highest-grossing film in India, earning ₹647 crore net domestically. Akshaye’s portrayal of Pakistani gangster Rehman Dakait has been praised by both critics and audiences.
Drishyam 3 Release Date Confirmed for October 2, 2026
The makers of Drishyam 3 have confirmed that the film will hit theatres on October 2, 2026. Ajay Devgn, along with Shriya Saran, Rajat Kapoor, and Tabu, will reprise their roles. The film is currently under production.
This development highlights the challenges in Bollywood when high-profile actors exit films at the last moment, even as Akshaye Khanna’s career continues to flourish with box-office hits like Dhurandhar.
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