In a significant development that has sent ripples through Bollywood, the producer of the highly anticipated sequel 'Drishyam 3' has initiated legal action against actor Akshaye Khanna. Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak confirmed on Saturday, December 27, 2025, that he has served a legal notice to the actor for allegedly walking out of the project after accepting a signing amount and committing his dates.
The Core of the Controversy: A Demand for a Wig
While speaking to ANI, Pathak detailed the reasons behind the sudden fallout. He alleged that Akshaye Khanna's exit stemmed from his insistence on wearing a 'wig' for his role, a demand that clashed with the film's narrative continuity and production schedule. Drishyam 3 is a direct continuation of the previous story, requiring characters to appear exactly as they were at the end of the last film.
Pathak explained the logistical impossibility, stating, "The day the old film ends, it starts at night, so how will he grow his hair in 4 hours?" He claimed that despite initial agreements, the actor revisited the issue, causing confusion. The producer further alleged that people around Khanna influenced him, suggesting he would look better with a wig, which ultimately led to his decision to leave the project.
Producer Alleges Breach of Contract and Financial Loss
The producer's legal move is rooted in a claim of breach of contract. Pathak stated that Khanna had signed the script, accepted the signing amount, and formally agreed to the project's terms before his abrupt departure. "We have sent him a legal notice. If we don't get a response by the end of the day, our legal team will take action, and we will take action in court," Pathak told ANI.
The financial implications of this exit are a primary concern for the production house. Pathak indicated that the team had already incurred significant costs, including building a set at Yash Raj Studios. The legal action aims to seek compensation for these losses and for the reputational damage caused by the last-minute recasting.
Jaideep Ahlawat Steps In as Replacement
In the wake of this controversy, the production team has moved swiftly to secure a replacement. Producer Mangat Pathak announced that acclaimed actor Jaideep Ahlawat has been added to the lead cast of Drishyam 3. He will be portraying a new character that fulfills the narrative requirement left by Khanna's exit. Pathak expressed confidence in the new casting, promising to present Ahlawat's character in a compelling manner.
As of now, Akshaye Khanna has not publicly responded to the allegations or the legal notice. The industry and fans are keenly awaiting his side of the story.
Drishyam 3, starring Ajay Devgn and directed by Abhishek Pathak, remains on schedule for its worldwide theatrical release on October 2, 2026.
