Drishyam 3: After Akshaye Khanna's exit, director throws open challenge, shuts down Jaideep Ahlawat 'replacement' buzz

Akshaye Khanna’s decision to step away from Drishyam 3 left fans and the industry stunned. The move triggered intense chatter, especially around who might replace him and what led to the fallout. Now, director Abhishek Pathak has spoken candidly, addressing both the exit and the speculation surrounding the film’s casting.

Related Story: Drishyam 3: Producer slams Akshaye Khanna over ‘unprofessional’ exit, confirms Jaideep Ahlawat as replacement

Abhishek Pathak Breaks His Silence

During an interview with ETimes, Pathak didn’t mince words while reflecting on his equation with Akshaye.

He stated, "I think it's just that people around him started telling him that he'll become a superstar and he should now look at something which is all about him. So, I wish him all the best and would say - try to do a solo film now."

When asked if reconciliation was ever possible, the director added, "When he doesn't have an answer, then he doesn't know what to say. That's something very stupid because we have known each other for a very long time. I stopped (trying to resolve the issue) because I thought, there's no point talking to this person right now; he's on some other planet."

What Really Led to Akshaye Khanna’s Exit?

Pathak revealed that Akshaye had formally signed the contract in November and even accepted the advance. However, he exited the project merely five days before filming was scheduled to begin. At that point, the narration was complete, costumes were being prepared, and the actor had reportedly loved the script. The disagreement stemmed from Akshaye’s insistence on wearing a wig.

Since Drishyam 3 picks up directly from the previous installment, Pathak felt it would be illogical for the character’s appearance to change within a single day. Though the matter seemed resolved initially, it resurfaced later, leading both parties to amicably part ways.

Notably, producer Kumar Mangat Pathak had earlier echoed similar sentiments, calling the move “unprofessional,” particularly because the project was already deep into preparations when the actor walked away.

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

Jaideep Ahlawat Rumours Put to Rest

Amid buzz that Jaideep Ahlawat would replace Akshaye, Abhishek Pathak clarified to Bombay Times that Jaideep is not stepping into Akshaye’s shoes but will portray a completely new character.

He also confirmed that Ajay Devgn stayed away from the dispute, leaving the matter to be handled internally between the director, actor, and producers.