Kumar Mangat Pathak Takes On Akshaye Khanna Over Drishyam 3 Exit
Kumar Mangat Pathak Takes On Akshaye Khanna Over Drishyam 3 Exit
Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak has finally broken his silence amid growing speculation around Akshaye Khanna no longer being part of Drishyam 3. In an explosive statement, Pathak accused the actor of backing out at the last minute despite signing a formal agreement, accepting an advance, and finalising preparations for the film.
Confirming that Jaideep Ahlawat has stepped into the role originally assigned to Akshaye, the producer did not mince words while describing the circumstances that led to the fallout.
Agreement Signed, Advance Taken — Then He Walked Away
According to Pathak, Akshaye was locked in after prolonged negotiations. “His remuneration was finalised after repeated discussions from his side. We signed a proper contract, paid him an advance, and even began costume preparations,” he said. Shockingly, the actor allegedly opted out just ten days before he was scheduled to begin shooting.
Pathak revealed that the situation worsened due to repeated changes in demands — particularly Akshaye’s insistence on wearing a wig. “Since Drishyam 3 continues directly from the previous part, the look had to remain consistent. Our director explained this clearly. Akshaye initially agreed but later changed his mind again after being influenced by people around him,” he stated. – Kumar Mangat Pathak Takes On Akshaye Khanna Over Drishyam 3 Exit
Success Has Gone to His Head
The producer went on to allege that Akshaye’s recent career upswing has altered his attitude. Referring to past collaborations like Section 375, Pathak said he had backed the actor at a time when opportunities were limited. “After Drishyam 2, he started getting bigger offers. Before that, he had been sitting idle for years,” he claimed.
Drawing comparisons, Pathak pointed out that the Drishyam franchise is driven by Ajay Devgn, while Akshaye has largely been part of ensemble projects such as Dhurandhar. “Being part of a successful multi-star film doesn’t make someone a solo superstar. He even claimed Dhurandhar worked because of him alone — that’s simply not true,” he remarked. – Kumar Mangat Pathak Takes On Akshaye Khanna Over Drishyam 3 Exit
Praises for Jaideep Ahlawat
Expressing relief at moving forward, Pathak praised Jaideep Ahlawat, calling him both a superior performer and a better collaborator. He also recalled producing one of Jaideep’s early films, Aakrosh, and said the casting change has ultimately worked in the film’s favour.
“Drishyam is a massive brand. One actor leaving cannot derail it. With Jaideep on board, we feel stronger creatively and personally,” he added.
Legal Action Underway
Pathak confirmed that he has already issued a legal notice to Akshaye Khanna, citing financial losses and professional misconduct. “He has stopped taking my calls and hasn’t responded to the notice yet. But I won’t let this go,” he asserted.
Ending on a note of disbelief, the producer questioned the logic behind the wig demand. “The story picks up exactly where the last film ended. How can a character suddenly grow hair overnight? Is there some miracle technology I don’t know about?” he asked.
With legal proceedings now in motion and a new actor officially stepping in, Drishyam 3 is moving ahead — leaving behind one of the most controversial casting exits in recent Bollywood memory.
Kumar Mangat Pathak Takes On Akshaye Khanna Over Drishyam 3 Exit
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