Drishyam 3 Update: Jaideep Ahlawat Isn’t Replacing Akshaye Khanna, Director Abhishek Pathak Clarifies

Ajay Devgn’s starrer Drishyam 3 is one of the most anticipated movies. After the announcement of its release, the star cast, narrative, and the third installment of the franchise are creating a buzz all over the internet and social media. However, amidst the Dhurandhar tsunami, Akshaye Khanna’s sudden exit from the film garnered the attention of all. Reportedly, Indian actor Jaideep Ahlawat was replacing him, but director Abhishek Pathak stopped the rumor mill and finally spilled the beans. 

Drishyam 3 Controversy: Jaideep Ahlawat Is the New Character, Not a Replacement

Drishyam 3 has grabbed headlines for a couple of good reasons. Firstly, the nail-biting narratives hooked the audience and kept them on the edge of their seats. Secondly, the stellar ensemble of cast comprising Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor, itself makes it a visual treat. 

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Slated for release on October 2, 2026, movie fanatics’ excitement knows no bounds. Initially, Dhurandhar star Akshaye Khanna was a part of the stellar cast. However, reports state that the actor has walked out due to disagreements over his remuneration and look in the film. Following the twin successes of Dhurandhar and Chhaava, Khanna revised his fees and demanded Rs 21 crore. After he exited the project, there were a few changes in the starcast, including the introduction of a new character. 

Rumors of Jaideep Ahlawat replacing Akshaye Khanna began to spread at lightning speed. Later, director Abhishek Pathak confirmed that Ahlawat will join the ensemble but will not be replacing Khanna’s earlier role. He will be writing a new character. He stated, “All this happened after the contract was signed in November. He left the movie five days before it was going on the floors. The look was locked, costumes were getting made, the narration had happened and he loved the story. My film starts from the point where it ended. I couldn’t have him in the courtroom in the afternoon, and in the evening, he comes back with hair. How is it possible? That was the point I explained and convinced him.”

Presented by Star Studio18, the shoot is slated to commence in Goa on January 8, with production expected to continue until the end of February.