Akshaye Khanna Exits Drishyam 3 Over Salary Dispute: Sources
🚨 Breaking Bollywood News Alert! Get the complete inside story. Updated December 24, 2025.
Dhurandhar Star Akshaye Khanna Exits Drishyam 3 Over Salary Days After Release Date Reveal: Sources
📰 RSS Feed Image
📖 Table of Contents
🎬 Latest Development: "Dhurandhar" Star Akshaye Khanna Reportedly Exits "Drishyam 3" Over Salary Disagreement, Days After Release Date Reveal
Khanna's Shocking "Drishyam 3" Exit
📋 What You Need to Know
In a development that has sent ripples through the Hindi film industry, acclaimed actor Akshaye Khanna has reportedly exited the highly anticipated "Drishyam 3." The news comes mere days after lead actor and producer Ajay Devgn officially announced the film's worldwide theatrical release date as October 2, 2026, building immense excitement among fans. Sources close to the production indicate that Khanna's departure stems from an unresolved salary dispute, a surprising turn given his pivotal role in the franchise's previous installment and his recent success with the blockbuster "Dhurandhar." This unexpected twist leaves a significant void in the "Drishyam 3" cast and raises questions about the future casting for the crucial character he portrayed.
🎭 Complete Story
The drama unfolded swiftly following Ajay Devgn's announcement on Monday, which confirmed "Drishyam 3" for an October 2, 2026 release, reigniting anticipation for the popular thriller franchise. However, industry insiders now suggest that negotiations with Akshaye Khanna, who played the formidable IG Tarun Ahlawat in "Drishyam 2," hit an impasse regarding his remuneration. While the exact figures remain undisclosed, it's understood that Khanna's team sought a significant hike, citing his enhanced market value following the immense critical and commercial success of his recent film, "Dhurandhar." "Dhurandhar" saw Khanna deliver a powerful performance that was widely lauded, positioning him as a bankable star capable of carrying a film. This success appears to have emboldened his demands for "Drishyam 3," which the producers were reportedly unwilling or unable to meet, leading to an eventual breakdown in talks. The decision to part ways was reportedly mutual but regrettable, given the strong impact Khanna had in the previous installment, where his character was instrumental in challenging Vijay Salgaonkar's narrative. The creative team now faces the daunting task of either recasting the character of IG Ahlawat or significantly re-writing the script to accommodate his absence, a move that could potentially alter the established dynamic of the "Drishyam" universe.
📊 Industry Analysis
Akshaye Khanna's reported exit from "Drishyam 3" over a salary dispute highlights a crucial and often sensitive aspect of the film industry: talent valuation. Post-pandemic, with altered box office dynamics and evolving streaming landscapes, actors' fees have been a subject of intense negotiation. Khanna's recent triumph with "Dhurandhar" undoubtedly elevated his standing, giving him stronger leverage at the negotiation table. This scenario is not uncommon; actors whose previous projects have performed exceptionally well often command higher fees for subsequent ventures, reflecting their increased drawing power and critical acclaim. For a franchise like "Drishyam," which relies heavily on strong performances and a compelling cat-and-mouse dynamic, losing a key player like Khanna presents a significant challenge. The producers must now weigh the creative integrity of the series against budget constraints, potentially leading to a search for a replacement who can match Khanna's gravitas or a complete script overhaul, both of which carry inherent risks for a much-awaited sequel.
💬 Expert Commentary
"This situation with Akshaye Khanna and 'Drishyam 3' is a classic case of an actor's rising stock clashing with production realities," states trade analyst Rohan Mehra. "Khanna's performance in 'Dhurandhar' was a game-changer for him; it proved his commercial viability and critical appeal simultaneously. Naturally, his team would push for a fee commensurate with his current market value. For the 'Drishyam 3' producers, while they value his contribution, they also have a budget and an established franchise to protect. It's a tough call for both sides. The challenge now for the 'Drishyam' team is immense. Khanna's character was pivotal. Replacing him with an equally strong actor who fits the role, or rewriting the script to make his absence plausible, will be crucial to maintaining the high standards set by the previous films. This could delay production or significantly impact the film's narrative."
🔗 Related Context
The "Drishyam" franchise, starring Ajay Devgn, has been a critical and commercial juggernaut since its inception. Known for its gripping narratives, intricate plot twists, and powerful performances, it has garnered a loyal fanbase across India. The announcement of "Drishyam 3" on October 2, 2026, had already set high expectations, especially after the immense success of "Drishyam 2." Akshaye Khanna's portrayal of the determined police officer in the second installment was widely praised for adding a new layer of intensity to the conflict. His reported departure, therefore, becomes a major talking point, creating speculation about potential replacements and how the storyline will evolve without him. The industry will be keenly watching how this casting challenge is addressed by the "Drishyam 3" team.
🔍 Explore More Bollywood Content
Stay connected with the latest happenings in Hindi cinema:
Latest box office numbers and film business analysis
Get the latest breaking news and updates from Hindi cinema
First look at movies coming soon to theaters
💡 Visit Hindi Cinema News for more.
🎯 Key Takeaways
Akshaye Khanna's reported exit from "Drishyam 3" due to a salary dispute, just days after its release date reveal, has undoubtedly created a stir. It underscores the complex financial negotiations inherent in big-budget film productions and the heightened value of actors following significant box office successes like "Dhurandhar." While Khanna's absence will leave a noticeable void, the "Drishyam 3" team now faces the critical task of navigating this challenge, whether through a strategic recasting or a narrative adjustment, to ensure the franchise continues its legacy of gripping storytelling. Fans and industry observers alike will be watching closely to see how this crucial development impacts one of India's most anticipated thrillers, scheduled for an October 2, 2026 release.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When did this news break?
A: This story was reported today with comprehensive coverage as details emerge.
Q: What makes this significant?
A: This development represents an important moment in the Hindi film industry.
📢 Stay Updated
Don't miss breaking entertainment news! Follow us for real-time updates.
What's your take? Share your thoughts in the comments!
