Akshaye Khanna exits Ajay Devgn's Drishyam 3 amid fee talks after Dhurandhar roar: Report

The confirmation of Ajay Devgn’s Vijay Salgaonkar returning in Drishyam 3 instantly set fan circles abuzz. Slated for October 2, 2026, a date etched into the franchise’s DNA, the next chapter promises a fresh yet familiar mystery. While Tabu, Shriya Saran, Rajat Kapoor, Ishita Dutta and Mrunal Jadhav are locked in to reprise their roles, one crucial name stood missing: Akshaye Khanna.

Related Story: Ajay Devgn’s Drishyam 3: Vijay Salgaonkar returns on the day that refuses to be forgotten! Check release date

Riding High on a Career Resurgence

Akshaye Khanna is enjoying a powerful revival. His measured, commanding performance in the Ranveer Singh-led spy thriller Dhurandhar earned wide acclaim, re-establishing his quiet intensity as box-office gold. He further strengthened his position in 2025 with Chhaava, where he played the lead antagonist, reaffirming his reputation as a dependable, scene-stealing performer.

With audiences celebrating his return to form, anticipation is high for his upcoming portrayal of Daitya Guru Shukracharya in PVCU’s Mahakali, alongside other projects said to be in the pipeline. Expectations around every Akshaye Khanna announcement are now sharper than ever.

Why Drishyam 3 Talks Reportedly Hit a Pause?

Amid the building excitement, according to a recent report by Bollywood Machine, negotiations between Akshaye Khanna and the Drishyam 3 makers have hit a roadblock. The producers were reportedly unwilling to match the actor’s revised remuneration following his recent successes.

The report also hints at possible creative differences, which may have further complicated the discussions.

Not The Final Word- Yet

Interestingly, the door may not be fully closed. The same report suggests that conversations are still ongoing, and a mutually acceptable middle ground could still be reached. If things align, Akshaye’s return would undoubtedly deepen the intrigue around the third installment.

Must Read: Drishyam 3: Mohanlal announces shooting plans, Ajay Devgn to commence simultaneously!

What Lies Ahead For The Franchise!

Drishyam 3 was announced with a gripping teaser voiced by Ajay Devgn, teasing the next layer of suspense in the beloved thriller series. The film is being shot simultaneously in Malayalam, with Mohanlal headlining the original version, expected to release first.