For a few days, there have been reports that Akshaye Khanna has walked out of Ajay Devgn’s much-awaited Drishyam 3, the third installment of the successful crime franchise. Reports suggested that the remuneration was the main issue for Akshaye Khanna’s exit. In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Drishyam 3’s producer Kumar Mangat Pathak made shocking comments and revealed his side of the story. Officially, Jaideep Ahlawat replaced Akshaye Khanna in Drishyam 3.
Kumar Mangat Pathak said, “He insisted that he would like to wear a wig. I was shocked. But Abhishek Pathak (director) convinced him that it wouldn’t be practical, as it would result in continuity issues since Drishyam 3 is a sequel. 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. Later, he informed us that he doesn’t want to be a part of the film at all.”
Kumar Mangat Pathak added, “There was a time when Akshaye was nothing. That’s when I made Section 375 (2019) with him. Even then, so many people told us not to work with him because of his unprofessional behaviour. His energy on set is absolutely toxic. Section 375 got him recognition. Later, I signed him in Drishyam 2 (2022). He has got all the big offers only after Drishyam 2. Uske pehle woh 3-4 saal tak ghar pe baitha hua tha (For 3-4 years before Section 375, he was sitting idle at home).”
“Also, it’s important to note that the Drishyam franchise is fronted by Ajay Devgn. Chhaava is a Vicky Kaushal film along with Akshaye. The same goes for Dhurandhar – it’s Ranveer Singh’s film. If Akshaye does a solo film, it won’t even collect Rs. 50 crores in India. Dhurandhar’s success has gone into his head. He told us, ‘Dhurandhar is working because of me.’ He needs to understand that multiple factors worked in favour of Dhurandhar.”