Bollywood Shockwaves: Akshaye Khanna’s Exit from Drishyam 3 Sparks Industry Buzz
In a development that has sent ripples across Bollywood and the broader Indian film industry, reports emerged a few days ago suggesting that actor Akshaye Khanna would not be part of the highly anticipated third installment of the blockbuster franchise Drishyam. This news, initially broken by Bollywood Hungama on December 26, quickly garnered widespread attention and speculation among fans and industry insiders alike. Now, in an exclusive statement to Bollywood Hungama, producer Kumar Mangat Pathak has shed light on the behind-the-scenes turmoil, revealing surprising details about the actor’s departure, unprofessional conduct, and the future of the film.
Unraveling the Controversy: What Led to Akshaye Khanna’s Exit?
Exclusive Producer Insights: A Tale of Unprofessionalism and Disagreements
According to Kumar Mangat Pathak, the departure of Akshaye Khanna from Drishyam 3 was not a sudden decision but the culmination of a series of disagreements and issues that arose during the pre-production phase. The producer vividly recalled how the actor’s contractual negotiations and on-set behavior had become problematic, ultimately leading to his replacement by actor Jaideep Ahlawat.
“We had already signed an agreement with Akshaye Khanna, and his fees were finalized after extensive negotiations,” Pathak explained. “He also insisted on wearing a wig for his character, a request that director Abhishek Pathak tried to accommodate by explaining the practical challenges, especially since Drishyam 3 is a sequel and continuity is key. Despite understanding this, Akshaye’s team was advised that a wig might make him look more appealing, leading him to reassert his demand. But shortly after, he abruptly informed us he no longer wished to be part of the project.”
Behind the Curtain: Past Collaborations and Actor Behavior
Kumar Mangat Pathak did not shy away from recalling his history with Akshaye Khanna, highlighting a pattern of unprofessional conduct that has affected his projects over the years. “Akshaye’s journey in Bollywood has had its ups and downs. I first worked with him in the 2019 film Section 375, which earned him recognition, but even then, many industry insiders warned us about his temperament,” he said. “His energy on set has often been described as toxic, and his attitude has sometimes been a hurdle rather than a help.”
He further emphasized that Khanna’s recent surge in career success—his big offers post-Drishyam 2—was largely circumstantial. “Before Drishyam 2, he was sitting at home for nearly three to four years,” Pathak pointed out. “His recent confidence and claims of being a superstar are misplaced. He seems to believe that his presence alone can drive a film’s box office, but the reality is quite different. Big Bollywood films like Drishyam are ensemble efforts, driven by star power, strong scripts, and the right team—attributes that Akshaye seems to overlook.”
Behind the Scenes: The Making of Drishyam 3 and Casting Choices
From Script to Screen: The Drama Behind Akshaye’s Rejection
The producer revealed that Akshaye Khanna had initially expressed enthusiasm for the Drishyam 3 script. “He loved the story when he heard it at his farmhouse in Alibaug,” Pathak recounted. “He was so impressed that he told us it was a Rs. 500 crore film—an unheard-of script in Indian cinema that he claimed was unlike anything he had ever heard.”
After intense negotiations and agreement on his fees, Akshaye even received an advance, and the production team had already begun preparations for his wardrobe and styling. “We paid the designer for his costumes, and everything was set. But just ten days before shooting, he suddenly backed out, citing personal reasons,” said Pathak, visibly disappointed.
Replacing Akshaye Khanna: The Rise of Jaideep Ahlawat
With Akshaye’s exit, the filmmakers quickly moved to find a suitable replacement. “We have replaced him with Jaideep Ahlawat, who is not only a superior actor but also a better person on set,” Pathak confirmed. “I have a history with Jaideep; I produced his film Aakrosh back in 2010, and I have always admired his talent and professionalism.”
The decision to cast Jaideep was not just about acting ability but also about maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the project. “The Drishyam franchise is fronted by superstar Ajay Devgn, and we wanted to ensure that the cast and crew reflect the same level of commitment,” he added.
The Bigger Picture: Bollywood’s Franchise Culture and Actor Perceptions
Star Power and Market Dynamics in Bollywood
Kumar Mangat Pathak’s comments also shed light on a broader trend in Bollywood, where actors often believe that their star power alone can guarantee box office success. “Many actors tend to think that they can carry a film solely on their name. But the reality is that successful Bollywood movies are a collective effort—script, direction, cast, and production value all matter,” he explained.
He criticized actors who believe they are “superstars” after a few hits, emphasizing that a consistent track record and professionalism are what truly matter. “Akshaye Khanna’s recent attitude reflects a growing ego that’s disconnected from the realities of Bollywood’s competitive landscape,” he observed. “Success in Bollywood is fleeting, and only those who stay grounded and professional thrive in the long run.”
The Future of Drishyam 3 and Industry Expectations
Despite Akshaye Khanna’s absence, the Drishyam 3 project continues to generate excitement among Bollywood fans. The franchise’s previous installments starring Ajay Devgn have been massive hits, establishing it as one of the most beloved crime thrillers in Indian cinema. With Jaideep Ahlawat stepping into the role, expectations remain high that the film will continue this successful legacy.
Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak expressed confidence in the film’s prospects, stating, “The Drishyam brand is bigger than any individual actor. We’re focused on delivering a quality film that respects the franchise’s reputation. Despite the setback with Akshaye, we are optimistic about the film’s success and look forward to its release.”
Conclusion: The State of Bollywood and the Importance of Professionalism
The controversy surrounding Akshaye Khanna’s exit from Drishyam 3 highlights some of the ongoing challenges in Bollywood—namely, issues of professionalism, actor behavior, and the realities of star-driven films. As the industry continues to evolve, producers and filmmakers are increasingly emphasizing the importance of committed, reliable talent who can contribute positively to the filmmaking process.
The incident serves as a reminder that Bollywood’s success relies not only on star power but also on the dedication and professionalism of its artists. With the new cast in place, fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see how Drishyam 3 shapes up and whether it can live up to the formidable legacy of its predecessors.
As the film prepares for production, one thing remains clear: Bollywood’s vibrant, dynamic industry continues to be a space of surprises, where talent, temperament, and perseverance determine success.
