“Do a Solo Film”: Drishyam 3 Director Challenges Akshaye Khanna on Last Minute Exit, Reveals Ajay Devgn’s Reaction

Director Abhishek Pathak Underscored the Importance of Professional Commitments in the Film Industry

Drishyam 3 producer Kumar Mangat Pathak, followed by the director Abhishek Pathak, have slammed Bollywood actor Akshaye Khanna for exiting the film despite signing an agreement.

The director even challenged him to attempt a solo film, revealing Ajay Devgn’s response to the actor’s sudden exit.

Drishyam 3 Director’s Response on Akshaye Khanna’s Exit

The film’s director, Abhishek Pathak, has reacted to Akshaye’s departure in an interview with a news agency: “He (Ajay) left it to me completely. Anyway, it’s more about me, Akshaye and the production. So, I would rather leave that aspect of how we dealt with it out. 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.”

Akshaye Khanna’s Demand for Drishyam 3

The filmmaker revealed that Akshaye left the film a day before Dhurandhar’s release and that the first disagreement arose when the actor insisted on wearing a wig. Abhishek explained that since the film continues from where the previous instalment ended, Akshaye’s character could not sport a wig in the third part. 

He shared that he discussed the issue with the actor and managed to convince him initially, but the demand resurfaced a few days later. Akshaye eventually walked out of the project.

Abhishek also dismissed rumours of Akshaye being paid Rs. 21 crore for the film, claiming that it was the actor himself who was floating such reports. He declined to disclose the final amount at which Akshaye was signed and revealed that “all the drama started” only after the contract had been signed.

Will a Solo Akshaye Khanna Film Become a Hit like Dhurandhar?

Abhishek Pathak shared his perspective on Akshaye’s decision-making. He said, “I think it’s just that people around him started telling him that he’ll become a superstar and he should now look at something which is all about him. So, I wish him all the best, and would say – try to do a solo film now. When he doesn’t have an answer, then he doesn’t know what to say.” 

“That’s something very stupid because we have known each other for a very long time. I stopped (trying to resolve the issue) because I thought there’s no point talking to this person right now, he’s on some other planet,” he added.

Akshaye Khanna on Limelight after Dhurandhar

The spy thriller, Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar, is creating waves with no signs of slowing down. The film entered the Rs. 1,000 crore club within just 22 days and continues to perform strongly. 

In the film, Akshaye essays the role of gangster Rehman Dakait, and his performance has received widespread acclaim. His brief dance to the Fa9La song has also gone viral, with fans praising both his look and screen presence. 

The film also stars Ranveer Singh, R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, and Sanjay Dutt in key roles. The second part is scheduled for release on March 19, 2026.

Drishyam 3’s Fate

Drishyam 3 is the third instalment in the popular franchise. The film will feature Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor reprising their roles. Presented by Star Studios and produced by Panorama Studios, the film is currently under production and is scheduled to release in theatres on October 2, 2026. 

It is also reported that Jaideep Ahlawat has replaced Akshaye for the cop’s role.