The year 2025 began on a high note for actor Akshaye Khanna, with back-to-back successes in films like ‘Chhaava’ and ‘Dhurandhar’. However, the actor now finds himself in the spotlight for a different reason—a controversial exit from the much-anticipated thriller franchise, ‘Drishyam 3’. The film's producer, Kumar Mangat, has not only announced a replacement but has also revealed plans to take legal action against the actor.
Producer Announces Replacement and Legal Action
In a candid conversation with Bollywood Hungama, producer Kumar Mangat addressed the sudden departure of Akshaye Khanna from ‘Drishyam 3’. Mangat stated that the exit, which occurred just 10 days before the actor's shoot was scheduled to begin, will not impact the film. He revealed that acclaimed actor Jaideep Ahlawat has now stepped into the pivotal role.
Mangat was effusive in his praise for the new cast member. “Drishyam is a very big brand. It doesn’t matter whether he is in the film or not. Now, Jaideep Ahlawat has replaced him. By the grace of God, we have got a better actor than Akshaye, and most importantly, we have got a better person than Akshaye as well,” the producer said. He also mentioned his prior professional relationship with Ahlawat, having produced one of the actor's early films, ‘Aakrosh’ (2010).
The Sudden Exit: From Enthusiasm to Walkout
The producer detailed the sequence of events that led to the fallout. According to Mangat, Akshaye Khanna was initially highly impressed with the script during the first reading. He believed the film had the potential to earn Rs 500 crore and even celebrated with the director, Abhishek Pathak, and the writer. Following successful negotiations, agreements were signed and advance payments were made.
However, trouble began over a creative disagreement regarding the actor's look. Khanna reportedly wanted to wear a wig, but the director felt it would break the continuity from the previous sequel. Although Khanna initially agreed, he later reverted to his original demand after advice from his associates. While the director was open to further discussion, Khanna ultimately informed the team that he did not want to be part of the project at all.
Financial Fallout and Legal Notice
Kumar Mangat stated that the last-minute exit has caused the production significant financial losses. As a result, the producer has sent a legal notice to Akshaye Khanna. As of now, the actor has not responded to the legal notice. This move underscores the serious contractual and professional implications of the actor's decision to leave the project at such a late stage.
This controversy casts a shadow over what was a promising start to the year for Akshaye Khanna, following the critical acclaim for his roles in ‘Chhaava’ and ‘Dhurandhar’. For the ‘Drishyam’ franchise and its team, the focus has now firmly shifted to moving forward with Jaideep Ahlawat, as they prepare to bring the next chapter of the successful series to audiences.
