Jaideep Ahlawat In, Akshaye Khanna Sued: The ‘Drishyam 3’ Shakeup

India-West News Desk

MUMBAI-Director Abhishek Pathak has clarified that while Jaideep Ahlawat is joining the cast of ‘Drishyam 3’, he is not a direct replacement for Akshaye Khanna. Instead, Ahlawat will portray a newly developed character following Khanna’s abrupt departure from the production.

Addressing the casting change in an interview with the Times of India, Pathak confirmed that the script is being adjusted to accommodate a fresh role. “No, Jaideep is not replacing Akshaye. I’m writing a new character,” Pathak stated.

Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak further explained the transition to ANI, noting that while Ahlawat occupies the narrative space previously held by Khanna’s character, the presentation will be different. “He will do what Akshaye was doing, but he will come in a new form,” the producer said.

The director revealed that Khanna exited the project only five days before filming was scheduled to begin, despite having signed a contract in November and completed look tests. The primary point of contention involved a continuity issue regarding the actor’s appearance.

“My film starts from the point where it ended,” Pathak said. “I couldn’t have him in the courtroom in the afternoon and in the evening, he comes back with hair. That was the point I explained and convinced him.”

The exit has resulted in a legal dispute. Kumar Mangat Pathak has issued a legal notice to Khanna, seeking compensation for financial losses incurred after the actor allegedly walked out despite accepting a signing bonus and committing to filming dates. Khanna has not yet released a public statement regarding the matter.

‘Drishyam 3’ is scheduled for a global theatrical release on October 2, 2026. Ajay Devgn returns as Vijay Salgaonkar, alongside original cast members Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor.