‘Drishyam 3’ Producer Reveals Akshaye Khanna Quit Film Day Before Dhurandhar’s Release, Calls Him “Unprofessional”
Kumar Mangat Pathak revealed that Akshaye Khanna exited ‘Drishyam 3’ right before the release of ‘Dhurandhar’.
The Hindi remake of ‘Drishyam 3’ is making headlines, but not for the right reasons. Panorama Studios producer Kumar Mangat Pathak has launched a scathing attack on actor Akshaye Khanna, confirming his exit from the franchise and labelling his behaviour as “unprofessional” and “toxic”. Kumar Mangat Pathak told Times of India that Akshaye Khanna’s departure was abrupt and unexpected. Akshaye reportedly quit the project just one day before the release of his blockbuster spy thriller, ‘Dhurandhar’ (which hit screens on December 5).
Before his exit, Akshaye Khanna was reportedly thrilled with the script. He even hugged director Abhishek Pathak after the narration, predicting the film would easily cross the Rs 500 crore mark.
Despite reportedly accepting an advance payment and being less than two weeks away from the shoot, Akshaye allegedly sent a single text message announcing his exit and has since gone “MIA” (Missing In Action), refusing to answer calls or messages. He added, “At least walk out graciously. How can you not respond to calls and messages?”
Kumar Mangat Pathak didn’t hold back, suggesting that the success of ‘Dhurandhar’ has affected the actor's attitude. Pathak claimed that “fame has gone to Akshaye Khanna’s head,” adding a sharp jab that Akshaye’s solo films struggle to even collect Rs 50 crore in India.
While industry chatter suggests Akshaye Khanna asked for a massive fee hike following Dhurandhar’s success, Pathak maintained the issue is more about conduct than just money.
Kumar Mangat Pathak recalled working with Akshaye on ‘Section 375’ (2019), claiming the actor's energy on set was “absolutely toxic”. He noted that while many warned him against hiring Akshaye Khanna, he gave him a platform in both ‘Section 375’ and ‘Drishyam 2’ after the actor had been “sitting at home” for several years.
The fallout has led to serious legal and casting consequences. Kumar Mangat Pathak confirmed he has sent a legal notice to Akshaye Khanna for walking out of the project just ten days before production was set to begin.
The franchise has moved on swiftly, with powerhouse performer Jaideep Ahlawat officially replacing Akshaye Khanna in the pivotal role. Despite the behind-the-scenes drama, the Hindi version of ‘Drishyam 3’ is officially back on track.
The film is scheduled to hit theatres on October 2, 2026. Meanwhile, the original Malayalam version starring Mohanlal has already wrapped up filming and is currently in the post-production phase.
