Jeethu Joseph Confirms Release Window for Mohanlal’s Drishyam 3 After Akshaye Khanna’s Exit
The Drishyam franchise is gearing up for a grand return to the big screen with its much-awaited third instalment. Director Jeethu Joseph has now confirmed the release window for the Malayalam version of Drishyam 3, led by Mohanlal, putting an end to months of speculation surrounding the film’s release.
Jeethu Joseph shared the update during a private event in Kochi, where he spoke about the lasting impact of the franchise. Addressing the audience, the filmmaker said, “Drishyam is a movie that has influenced lots of people. I still bear the impact of it. So, without too many expectations, you may watch the movie in the first week of April in the theatres. The release date will be officially announced soon.” He also revealed that his upcoming film, Valathuvashathe Kallan, is scheduled to release on January 30.
The Malayalam Drishyam series, which follows Georgekutty’s relentless efforts to protect his family after a crime committed under desperate circumstances, has received critical acclaim and massive box office success with its first two parts. With its emotionally gripping narrative and strong performances, the franchise has built a loyal fan base, making expectations for Drishyam 3 extremely high as it continues the compelling storyline.
While the Malayalam version of Drishyam 3 inches closer to its theatrical release, the Hindi adaptation has also been grabbing headlines. The Ajay Devgn-led Drishyam 3, produced by Panorama Studios and directed by Abhishek Pathak, is locked for a theatrical release on October 2, 2026. Pathak had earlier helmed Drishyam 2, which featured Ajay Devgn and Tabu in key roles.
However, the Hindi project recently faced turbulence after reports surfaced that Akshaye Khanna exited the film. Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak addressed the issue, stating that the actor opted out just a day before the release of Dhurandhar. Pathak revealed that Akshaye Khanna’s remuneration had been renegotiated three times and clarified that financial reasons were not the sole factor behind the decision.
He further disclosed that creative disagreements, including differences over the hairstyle of Akshaye’s character, IG Tarun Ahlawat, contributed to the fallout. According to the producer, the situation escalated after the actor stopped responding to calls, eventually compelling the production house to initiate legal proceedings.
Amid the controversy, Jaideep Ahlawat has reportedly been signed for a role in the film, though official confirmation is still awaited. Despite these developments, the Hindi version of Drishyam 3 remains on track for its October 2026 release, while the Malayalam original is set to hit theatres earlier, in April, much to the excitement of fans.
Jeethu Joseph shared the update during a private event in Kochi, where he spoke about the lasting impact of the franchise. Addressing the audience, the filmmaker said, “Drishyam is a movie that has influenced lots of people. I still bear the impact of it. So, without too many expectations, you may watch the movie in the first week of April in the theatres. The release date will be officially announced soon.” He also revealed that his upcoming film, Valathuvashathe Kallan, is scheduled to release on January 30.
The Malayalam Drishyam series, which follows Georgekutty’s relentless efforts to protect his family after a crime committed under desperate circumstances, has received critical acclaim and massive box office success with its first two parts. With its emotionally gripping narrative and strong performances, the franchise has built a loyal fan base, making expectations for Drishyam 3 extremely high as it continues the compelling storyline.
While the Malayalam version of Drishyam 3 inches closer to its theatrical release, the Hindi adaptation has also been grabbing headlines. The Ajay Devgn-led Drishyam 3, produced by Panorama Studios and directed by Abhishek Pathak, is locked for a theatrical release on October 2, 2026. Pathak had earlier helmed Drishyam 2, which featured Ajay Devgn and Tabu in key roles.
However, the Hindi project recently faced turbulence after reports surfaced that Akshaye Khanna exited the film. Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak addressed the issue, stating that the actor opted out just a day before the release of Dhurandhar. Pathak revealed that Akshaye Khanna’s remuneration had been renegotiated three times and clarified that financial reasons were not the sole factor behind the decision.
He further disclosed that creative disagreements, including differences over the hairstyle of Akshaye’s character, IG Tarun Ahlawat, contributed to the fallout. According to the producer, the situation escalated after the actor stopped responding to calls, eventually compelling the production house to initiate legal proceedings.
Amid the controversy, Jaideep Ahlawat has reportedly been signed for a role in the film, though official confirmation is still awaited. Despite these developments, the Hindi version of Drishyam 3 remains on track for its October 2026 release, while the Malayalam original is set to hit theatres earlier, in April, much to the excitement of fans.
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