The much-anticipated announcement of Drishyam has taken an unexpected turn. While fans were excited about the film finally going on floors, the spotlight quickly shifted to the shocking exit of Akshaye Khanna. Just days before shooting was scheduled to begin, producer Kumar Mangat Pathak confirmed that Khanna had walked away from the project. In his place, acclaimed actor Jaideep Ahlawat has been officially roped in.
Drishyam 3: Jaideep Ahlawat Replaces Akshaye Khanna
Director Mangat Pathak, expressed confidence in the new casting choice. He stated that Drishyam is a powerful brand that does not depend on one actor alone. According to him, Jaideep Ahlawat is not only a stronger performer but also a better person to work with. Pathak recalled producing Aakrosh, one of Jaideep’s early films, and emphasized that destiny has brought them together again.
Moreover, Ahlawat’s rising reputation in Bollywood makes him a fitting addition to the franchise. His intense screen presence and versatility are expected to add depth to the narrative. With Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor returning, the ensemble cast now looks even more promising.
The Franchise Legacy
The Drishyam series has always revolved around Ajay Devgn’s character, a man willing to go to extreme lengths to protect his family after a crime unfolds in his home. The first film introduced Tabu as the relentless investigating officer, while Drishyam 2 brought Akshaye Khanna into the picture as a senior cop reopening the case.
Now, as Drishyam 3 moves forward, Khanna’s absence will be felt, but the franchise’s gripping storyline and strong performances are expected to keep audiences hooked. The film has already gone on floors and is slated for release on October 2, 2026.
Why Akshaye Khanna Walked Out
Transitioning to the controversy, Pathak revealed that Khanna’s departure stemmed from disagreements over remuneration and creative choices. Reports suggest that the actor demanded a hefty fee of ₹21 crore, which the producers refused to meet. Additionally, Khanna insisted on wearing a wig for his role, a demand that director Abhishek Pathak initially rejected due to continuity issues.
Although Khanna had agreed to drop the wig idea, he later revived the demand after being influenced by his close circle. Eventually, he informed the team that he no longer wished to be part of the film. This sudden decision came barely ten days before shooting, leaving the production team scrambling for a replacement.
Producer’s Allegations Against Khanna
Pathak did not hold back in his remarks. He accused Khanna of unprofessional behavior, claiming that the actor had signed the contract after multiple renegotiations, accepted an advance payment, and then abruptly walked out. He further alleged that Khanna stopped responding to calls and has now been served a legal notice.
In addition, Pathak criticized Khanna’s attitude, stating that the success of ensemble films like Dhurandhar had gone to his head. He argued that Khanna is not a solo box-office draw and predicted that any solo project of his would struggle to cross ₹50 crores in India.
Past Experiences With Akshaye Khanna
Pathak also recalled earlier collaborations. He mentioned that he gave Khanna opportunities in Section 375 (2019) and Drishyam 2 (2022), both of which revived the actor’s career. Before these films, Khanna had limited work and was largely inactive for several years. According to Pathak, many industry insiders had warned him about Khanna’s difficult nature, describing his energy on set as toxic.
Despite the controversy, Pathak remains optimistic. He believes Jaideep Ahlawat’s entry will strengthen the film and ensure that the franchise continues its successful run. With the rest of the cast intact and the storyline poised to deliver another gripping thriller, Drishyam 3 is expected to generate massive anticipation among audiences.
While Akshaye Khanna’s exit has stirred headlines, the makers are determined to move ahead without disruption. The legal battle may continue off-screen, but on-screen, the focus is firmly on Ajay Devgn, Tabu, and now Jaideep Ahlawat, who will carry the legacy of Drishyam forward.
