Jaideep Ahlawat replaces Akshaye Khanna in Drishyam 3 after last-minute exit, producer threatens legal action
According to the producer, the dispute began over Khanna’s insistence on wearing a wig for the sequel
PTC Web Desk: Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak has confirmed that actor Jaideep Ahlawat has been roped in to replace Akshaye Khanna in the upcoming film Drishyam 3, following what he described as an abrupt and unprofessional withdrawal by Khanna just days before shooting was set to begin.
Speaking about the controversy, Pathak said Akshaye Khanna had been formally signed for the film after prolonged negotiations, with his remuneration finalised through a written agreement. However, the actor reportedly backed out barely 10 days before his scheduled shoot, leaving the production in disarray.
According to the producer, the dispute began over Khanna’s insistence on wearing a wig for the sequel. Director Abhishek Pathak objected, pointing out that Drishyam 3 continues directly from the events of Drishyam 2, and a sudden change in appearance would disrupt continuity. Khanna initially agreed to drop the demand but later revived it after suggestions from people close to him.
Pathak said despite the director’s willingness to revisit the discussion, the actor ultimately decided to walk away from the project altogether. The producer also made sharp remarks about Khanna’s professional conduct, alleging that concerns about his behaviour had existed even before they collaborated on Section 375 (2019). He claimed that film revived Khanna’s career, followed by Drishyam 2 (2022), which opened doors to bigger projects for the actor.
Pathak further alleged that recent success may have inflated Khanna’s sense of importance, adding that ensemble films often work due to multiple factors and not a single performer. He dismissed the notion that Khanna alone was responsible for the success of Dhurandhar.
With Khanna’s exit, Jaideep Ahlawat has officially joined the cast. Pathak said the Drishyam franchise remains strong regardless of individual casting changes and expressed confidence that Ahlawat is not only a stronger performer but also more professional. He also recalled having worked with Ahlawat earlier in the film Aakrosh (2010).
Addressing the losses incurred due to the sudden casting change, Pathak confirmed that a legal notice has already been sent to Khanna and that further legal action is being considered. He also questioned the logic behind the wig demand, noting that the sequel begins exactly where the previous film ended, leaving no room for such a drastic visual change.
Meanwhile, Khanna’s upcoming film Dhurandhar 2 is scheduled to release in theatres on March 19, 2026.