Akshaye Khanna quits Drishyam 3 days before Dhurandhar release, revealed producer

akshaye in drishyam 3

Bollywood actor Akshaye Khanna has reportedly exited the highly anticipated film Drishyam 3 just days before the release of his other big project, Dhurandhar, sparking controversy and heated discussions within the industry. Drishyam 3, starring Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor, is scheduled for 2026, but Khanna’s departure has left fans and filmmakers alike surprised.

In an interview with ETimes, Kumar Mangat Pathak said, “I have no idea why Akshaye took that step. He left Drishyam 3 a day before Dhurandhar’s release on December 4. In the trials itself, he had a fair idea that Dhurandhar would do well. He didn’t quit Drishyam 3 over money issues because he had well predicted and considered Dhurandhar’s success while demanding his fees for Drishyam 3, and that was agreed upon.”

He further revealed, "Akshaye Khanna was paid his signing amount after he was blown away by the script. He hugged director Abhishek Pathak and told him this will easily make 500 crore. After he signed the agreement, his costumes were finalised and paid for. Just 12 days before the shoot was to commence on December 16, I got a text from him saying he wouldn't be doing the film, and we would definitely work together in the future. I tried calling him, but he didn't answer. He has a tendency to go MIA whenever he wants to and I am aware of that side of him, but this is highly unprofessional."

Dismissing reports of Akshaye quitting Drishyam 3 over wig demand, the producer shared, “We were also given an excuse that Akshaye quit because he wants to wear a wig, but that doesn't sit well with the narrative. Drishyam 3 begins on the same night as the end of Drishyam 2, and one cannot grow hair in a matter of four hours. Abhishek still said we would take some creative liberties and work that out, but he never came to even discuss these things. At least walk out graciously. How can you not respond to calls and messages? We have known each other for 15 years! Why accept the money in the first place? Our deal was signed and sealed. Before I did Section 375 and Drishyam with him, he was sitting at home for four years. Is this how you behave once your film works? I have been in this industry for 40 years. Success and failure are common, but this behaviour is unethical and unpardonable."

In response to the exit, the Drishyam 3 team has already cast Jaideep Ahlawat in the role Khanna was expected to play. The makers have maintained that the franchise’s momentum remains strong and that production will proceed without significant delay.

As of now, Akshaye Khanna has not publicly responded to the producer’s claims.