Drishyam 3 Producer Sends Legal Notice to Akshaye Khanna, Jaideep Ahlawat Steps In

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 Khanna’s abrupt exit from the project. The producer also revealed that a legal notice has been sent to the actor, accusing him of unprofessional conduct that allegedly caused financial losses to the production.

Speaking to the media, Pathak said Akshaye Khanna had been formally signed after prolonged negotiations and fee renegotiations. However, the actor reportedly withdrew from the film just ten days before his scheduled shoot. According to the producer, the disagreement stemmed from Khanna’s insistence on wearing a wig, which the director felt would create continuity issues, given that Drishyam 3 directly follows the events of its predecessor.

Pathak explained that while Khanna initially agreed to drop the demand after discussions with director Abhishek Pathak, he later reversed his stance following advice from his entourage. Soon after, the actor informed the team that he no longer wished to be part of the film.

The producer also claimed that Khanna’s recent career resurgence may have contributed to the fallout. He said the actor had struggled for consistent work prior to Section 375 and Drishyam 2, and alleged that success had led to a change in attitude. Pathak accused Khanna of overstating his contribution to recent projects and said such behaviour negatively impacted the working environment.

With Khanna’s exit, Jaideep Ahlawat has officially joined the cast. Pathak welcomed the change, stating that the Drishyam franchise remains strong regardless of individual casting decisions. He added that he had previously worked with Ahlawat early in the actor’s career and expressed confidence in his professionalism and performance.

Addressing the legal aspect, Pathak confirmed that the production had incurred losses due to Khanna’s withdrawal and that a legal notice has already been served. He said a response from the actor is still awaited.

Drishyam 3 is currently in preparation, while Akshaye Khanna’s upcoming film Dhurandhar 2 is scheduled for theatrical release on March 19, 2026.