New Delhi, December 29, 2025 – In a dramatic turn of events, Bollywood actor Akshaye Khanna has exited the much-anticipated film Drishyam 3, following disagreements with the makers over remuneration and character requirements, according to statements from the film’s director and producer.
What Sparked the Drishyam 3 Exit?
Reports from credible entertainment sources indicate that the split between the actor and the Drishyam 3 team stemmed from multiple issues, primarily centered on money and creative differences. After his recent successes in films like Dhurandhar and Chhaava, Akshaye Khanna renegotiated his fees, with industry insiders claiming he sought up to Rs 21 crore to join the sequel. The producers and the creative team were reportedly taken aback by the high demand given the film’s budget structure.
Beyond fee negotiations, another contention point was Khanna’s request to change his character’s look by wearing a wig. The director explained that because Drishyam 3 follows directly from the end of Drishyam 2 — where his character appears bald — the continuity would suffer if he suddenly appeared with hair. The insistence on wearing a wig, according to the director, was a non-starter for the project’s narrative continuity.
Director Abhishek Pathak Speaks Out
Director Abhishek Pathak, son of producer Kumar Mangat Pathak and the creative head of Drishyam 3, addressed the controversy in a recent media interaction. Pathak confirmed that Akshaye Khanna exited the project just days before shooting was to begin, after the contract was signed and pre-production—including look tests and costume fittings—was underway.
Pathak also clarified reports regarding actor Jaideep Ahlawat joining the project. Contrary to rumors that Ahlawat is a direct replacement, Pathak stated that he will be playing a new character written specifically for him, and he is not stepping into Khanna’s role.
Responding to questions about the high fee demands, the director acknowledged that Khanna’s remuneration was renegotiated, though he declined to confirm the exact figure publicly. However, he stressed that money was not the sole reason for the split, suggesting that creative differences and external influences played a significant role.
Ajay Devgn’s Reaction to the Exit
Ajay Devgn, who reprises his role as Vijay Salgaonkar in the third installment of the franchise, reportedly reacted to the situation by placing his trust entirely in the director’s judgment. Pathak noted that Devgn did not intervene in the dispute and allowed the team to handle the matter internally.
This response from Devgn suggests a desire to maintain focus on the larger production rather than let off-screen controversies disrupt the film’s schedule or morale.
Producer’s Stance and Legal Action
Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak has publicly criticized Akshaye Khanna’s communication style, describing the actor’s behaviour as unprofessional and saying he became difficult to reach as the production drew closer. In a statement, Mangat Pathak disclosed that the team has sent a legal notice to Khanna for allegedly walking away from the project after taking a signing amount and committing to dates. If no adequate response is received, legal proceedings may follow.
The producer also emphasized that the film’s pace remains unchanged and that they are confident moving forward with adjustments to the cast and script. Ahlawat’s addition, alongside returning stars like Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor, keeps the project on track for its scheduled release.
Industry Reactions and Fan Debate
The news of Khanna’s abrupt exit has sparked swift reactions across social media and the entertainment industry. Fans and critics alike are debating whether the pay dispute or creative disagreements were truly at the heart of the matter, with some insiders accusing media narratives of unfairly targeting the actor. Independent commentators have pointed out that Khanna’s request for a different look could be tied to character comfort or personal preference, rather than mere ego. (Discourse aggregated from trend reactions).
Despite the controversy, industry observers note that such negotiations are not uncommon in high-profile film projects, especially when an actor’s market value surges following recent hits. How this public split will affect future collaborations remains to be seen.
What This Means for Drishyam 3
Drishyam 3 remains one of Bollywood’s most anticipated releases, slated for an October 2, 2026 theatrical launch. The franchise has consistently drawn audiences for its intense narrative and powerful performances. While cast changes and off-screen drama have grabbed headlines, production sources reaffirm that principal photography and post-production planning continue without delay.
The addition of fresh characters and an expanding ensemble could add new layers to the story, but the absence of a previously core actor will surely be watched closely by fans upon release.
Final Takeaway
Akshaye Khanna’s departure from Drishyam 3 highlights the complexities of modern film production, where creative vision, star power, and commercial realities intersect. As both sides navigate the fallout publicly, the film’s team is focusing on delivering a compelling narrative while maintaining schedules and audience anticipation.
Tags: Drishyam 3 controversy, Akshaye Khanna exit, Rs 21 crore fee, wig demand Bollywood, Ajay Devgn reaction, Bollywood film news, Drishyam 3 cast update