Sun Dec 28 14:53:16 UTC 2025: Summary:

Akshaye Khanna abruptly exited the Hindi remake of Drishyam 3 just before the release of his well-received project, Dhurandhar. Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak expresses his shock and disappointment, stating Khanna had previously shown enthusiasm for the film. Pathak cites creative differences, specifically regarding Khanna’s character’s hairstyle, as well as alleged payment disputes, and claims Khanna stopped communicating with the team, leading to a legal notice being considered. Jaideep Ahlawat has replaced Khanna in the role of IG Tarun Ahlawat.

News Article:

Akshaye Khanna Abruptly Exits ‘Drishyam 3’ Remake, Legal Action Looming

MUMBAI – Production of the Hindi remake of Drishyam 3 has hit a snag following the sudden departure of actor Akshaye Khanna. Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak of Panorama Studios has revealed details of a fallout with Khanna, citing creative differences and communication breakdown as contributing factors.

According to Pathak, Khanna exited the project just a day before the release of his acclaimed series Dhurandhar, despite previously expressing excitement after hearing the script narration. Pathak claims Khanna had even been paid an advance.

“He hugged the director after the narration and said the movie would cross Rs 500 crore,” Pathak stated. “Then, less than two weeks before shooting, he messaged that he was leaving.”

Pathak alleges that disagreements over the hairstyle of Khanna’s character, IG Tarun Ahlawat, and payment negotiations played a role. He claims Khanna stopped responding to calls and messages, prompting Panorama Studios to consider legal action. “He negotiated his salary three times and stopped taking calls,” Pathak stated.

Jaideep Ahlawat has been cast to replace Khanna in the role of IG Tarun Ahlawat. The Drishyam 3 Hindi remake is now proceeding with Ahlawat, aiming to overcome this early setback.

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