Watch: Akshaye Khanna’s First Public Appearance Since Drishyam 3 Legal Notice

Akshaye Khanna Steps Out in Public Amid Drishyam 3 Exit Controversy, the Ajay Devgn-starrer sequel slated for October 2, 2026. The film had generated massive anticipation among fans, and the actor’s sudden departure has sparked widespread discussion in Bollywood circles.

The actor was seen in a casual look by paparazzi, sporting an orange T-shirt, jeans, and a jacket, paired with a cap and black belt. While his appearance seemed relaxed, Akshaye has not yet commented publicly on the controversy surrounding his decision to leave the project.

Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak provided a detailed account of the negotiations and events leading to the exit. “We had signed an agreement with Akshaye Khanna. His fees also got locked after a lot of renegotiations from his side. He insisted that he would like to wear a wig. But (director) Abhishek Pathak convinced him that it wouldn’t be practical, as it would result in continuity issues since Drishyam 3 is a sequel,” Pathak said.

He continued, “He understood his point and agreed to let go of that demand. However, the chamchas around him advised him that he would look smarter if he donned a wig. So, he again requested the same. Abhishek relented and was even ready to discuss this point with him. But then, he informed us that he doesn’t want to be a part of the film at all.”


Video Credit: Viralbhayani

The producer also shared how Akshaye initially loved the script: “When he heard the script in his Alibaug farmhouse, he liked it so much that he told us, ‘Yeh Rs 500 crore ki film hai. Maine life mein aisi script nahin suni hai.’ He even hugged Abhishek and the writer. Then, we had negotiations, after which we agreed on the fees. We even signed the agreement. He even got an advance while we paid the designer for his clothes. And then 10 days before his shoot, he declined to work on the film.”

Pathak added, “I have suffered losses because of his behaviour. I am going to take legal action. I have already sent him a legal notice; he’s yet to reply to it… I was shocked. Drishyam 3 begins where Drishyam 2 ended. How can his character suddenly get hair? Is there any technology in the world that can grow hair within minutes?”

With Akshaye Khanna stepping away, Jaideep Ahlawat has been brought in to play a new character alongside Ajay Devgn , ensuring the franchise continues as planned despite the controversy.