Mumbai: The much-anticipated Drishyam 3 has found itself at the centre of controversy even before cameras roll, after actor Akshaye Khanna reportedly exited the project following disagreements with the makers. Putting an end to weeks of speculation, producer Kumar Mangat Pathak has now offered a detailed account of what led to the actor’s departure, making a series of strong allegations related to professionalism, creative differences and what he described as a “toxic” work environment.
The third instalment of the successful Drishyam franchise, which is headlined by Ajay Devgn, was expected to see Akshaye reprise his role following his widely appreciated performance in Drishyam 2 (2022). However, reports earlier this week suggested that the actor had walked out of the project, citing financial and creative disagreements in the aftermath of his recent success in Dhurandhar. Pathak has now confirmed that Akshaye is no longer part of the film and that actor Jaideep Ahlawat has stepped in to replace him.
Producer reveals agreement was already signed
Speaking about the sequence of events, Kumar Mangat Pathak said that Akshaye Khanna was formally signed for Drishyam 3 after prolonged negotiations. According to the producer, the actor’s remuneration had been finalised only after multiple rounds of discussions initiated from Akshaye’s side.
“We had signed an agreement with Akshaye Khanna. His fees were locked after a lot of renegotiations from his side,” Pathak said, stressing that the production team had made significant commitments based on the agreement, including advances and costume preparations.
Pathak added that the initial discussions around the script were extremely positive. He recalled that when Akshaye heard the script at his farmhouse in Alibaug, the actor was effusive in his praise, even calling it a potential ₹500 crore film. “He hugged the director and the writer. He was very excited,” the producer said.
The wig controversy and continuity concerns
One of the key points of contention, according to Pathak, revolved around Akshaye’s insistence on wearing a wig for his character. While the actor initially agreed to the director’s reasoning against it, the issue resurfaced later.
“He insisted that he wanted to wear a wig. Director Abhishek Pathak explained to him that it wouldn’t be practical because Drishyam 3 begins exactly where Drishyam 2 ended,” the producer said. “A sudden change in appearance would create serious continuity issues.”
Pathak claimed that after initially understanding the concern, Akshaye renewed the demand based on advice from people close to him. Although the director was willing to discuss the matter again, the actor eventually informed the team that he no longer wished to be part of the film.
“I was shocked,” Pathak said. “How can his character suddenly have hair when the sequel starts from the same point? Is there any technology that grows hair in minutes?”
Allegations of unprofessional behaviour
The producer went on to make serious allegations about Akshaye Khanna’s conduct, stating that issues related to professionalism were not new. Pathak claimed that he had faced similar warnings before casting Akshaye in Section 375 (2019).
“Even then, many people told us not to work with him because of his unprofessional behaviour. His energy on set is absolutely toxic,” Pathak alleged. He added that Section 375 and later Drishyam 2 played a significant role in reviving Akshaye’s career after a prolonged lull.
According to Pathak, the actor’s perception of his own stardom has changed following the success of ensemble films such as Dhurandhar. “Some actors do ensemble cast films, and when those films become hits, they start thinking they are the star,” he said, adding that Akshaye allegedly claimed Dhurandhar worked primarily because of him.
‘The franchise is bigger than any one actor’
Emphasising the strength of the Drishyam brand, Pathak said the franchise would not suffer due to the casting change. “Drishyam is a very big brand. It doesn’t matter whether he is in the film or not,” he said.
Confirming the replacement, the producer announced that Jaideep Ahlawat has been brought on board. “By the grace of God, we have got a better actor than Akshaye and, more importantly, a better person,” Pathak said, adding that he had previously worked with Ahlawat on Aakrosh (2010).
Legal action and financial losses
Pathak also revealed that Akshaye’s exit has caused financial losses to the production. With advances paid and preparations already underway, the sudden withdrawal allegedly left the producers in a difficult position.
“I have suffered losses because of his behaviour. I have already sent him a legal notice. He has not replied yet,” Pathak said, indicating that legal proceedings may follow.
What lies ahead for Drishyam 3
Despite the controversy, the makers have reiterated that Drishyam 3 will move forward as planned. With Ajay Devgn returning as the lead and Jaideep Ahlawat stepping into a key role, expectations remain high for the thriller, which continues one of Hindi cinema’s most successful franchises.
As of now, Akshaye Khanna has not issued any official statement responding to the allegations. Whether he chooses to address the claims or pursue a legal counter remains to be seen, but the episode has certainly added an unexpected twist to the journey of Drishyam 3.