The Bollywood thriller franchise Drishyam has hit a major roadblock with Akshaye Khanna's abrupt exit from the third installment, just weeks after its October 2, 2026 release date was announced. Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak of Panorama Studios has confirmed that acclaimed actor Jaideep Ahlawat will now step into the role originally set for Khanna, who portrayed the sharp IG Tarun Ahlawat in Drishyam 2. This casting shift follows escalating disputes that have turned public, with Pathak revealing his production company is in the process of sending a legal notice to Akshaye Khanna over the sudden withdrawal.
Pathak, in interviews with multiple outlets including NDTV and Bollywood Hungama, detailed the breakdown in negotiations, stating that Khanna's remuneration was renegotiated multiple times before an agreement was signed and an advance paid. Despite this, Khanna reportedly stopped responding to calls and backed out days before shooting commenced, causing significant financial setbacks. The producer emphasized the unprofessional timing, noting the exit occurred mere days prior to the scheduled start, forcing adjustments to sets and schedules.
Creative differences further fueled the conflict, particularly around Khanna's insistence on wearing a wig for his character. Pathak explained that since Drishyam 3 continues directly from the events of Drishyam 2—with minimal time gap—it would create continuity issues for the bald IG Tarun Ahlawat to suddenly have hair. Initial compromises were attempted, but Khanna ultimately decided not to proceed, leading Pathak to confirm that his company has already sent a legal notice to the actor seeking compensation.
Jaideep Ahlawat, celebrated for his gripping performances in series like Paatal Lok, brings a new intensity to the franchise as the antagonist pursuing Ajay Devgn's Vijay Salgaonkar. Pathak expressed confidence in the change, stating the brand's strength lies in its story and ensemble, with returning stars including Tabu, Shriya Saran, Ishita Dutta, and Rajat Kapoor ensuring the suspenseful cat-and-mouse game remains intact.
As production pushes forward with filming adjustments, this controversy highlights the high-stakes tensions in Bollywood negotiations, especially amid Khanna's recent acclaim from blockbusters like Dhurandhar. Fans await how Ahlawat's portrayal will reshape the dynamics in this eagerly anticipated conclusion to the Salgaonkar saga.