The announcement of Drishyam 3's theatrical release on October 2, 2026, generated considerable excitement among fans, but it also highlighted a notable absence in the cast lineup. The official statement named Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor as key returning members, conspicuously omitting Akshaye Khanna, whose intense portrayal of the antagonist in Drishyam 2 had been a standout element. This development has fueled speculation about behind-the-scenes tensions, with reports indicating that the actor's departure stemmed from unresolved financial and creative differences.

Following his acclaimed performances in recent blockbusters like Chhaava and the massively successful Dhurandhar, Akshaye Khanna's market value has surged dramatically. Sources close to the production revealed that the actor, capitalizing on this newfound demand, sought a substantial remuneration of ₹21 crore for reprising his role in the third installment. The producers, however, expressed concerns that accommodating such a high fee would exceed the project's budgetary constraints, leading to prolonged negotiations that ultimately failed to bridge the gap.

In addition to the monetary impasse, creative disagreements further complicated matters. Insiders disclosed that Khanna proposed altering his character's appearance by incorporating a wig, a suggestion aimed at refreshing his on-screen presence. The filmmakers rejected this idea, prioritizing continuity with his wig-free look from Drishyam 2 to preserve the narrative and visual consistency established in the previous film. This refusal reportedly contributed to the growing discord between the actor and the production team.

Also Read: Drishyam 3 to Release on Gandhi Jayanti 2026, Ajay Devgn Reprises Vijay

Despite the standoff, the separation is described as amicable, with both parties maintaining professional respect. Khanna reportedly extended well wishes to the team before exiting, and sources indicate openness to future collaborations under more aligned circumstances. The makers are now likely to explore alternatives for the pivotal investigative role that Khanna brought to life so effectively in the sequel.

As Drishyam 3 moves forward without one of its recent highlights, the incident underscores the evolving dynamics in Bollywood, where post-success fee revisions and creative inputs can significantly influence casting decisions. Fans awaiting the conclusion of the gripping thriller franchise will now anticipate how the story adapts to this change, while Khanna continues to ride the wave of his current professional highs.

Also Read: Drishyam 3 to Release on Gandhi Jayanti 2026, Ajay Devgn Reprises Vijay