“Akshaye Khanna Is Not Replaced by Jaideep Ahlawat,” Drishyam 3 Director Contradicts Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak's Statement –

Akshaye Khanna Not Replaced By Jaideep Ahlawat In Drishyam 3:

The ongoing off-screen drama surrounding Drishyam 3 took a new turn as director Abhishek Pathak publicly contradicted producer Kumar Mangat Pathak’s claim that actor Jaideep Ahlawat had replaced Akshaye Khanna in the highly anticipated sequel.

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Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak had recently alleged that Khanna walked away from the film shortly before shooting, accusing him of unprofessional conduct and publicly stating that Ahlawat would step into the role. In interviews, the producer praised Ahlawat as a “better actor and better person” and suggested Khanna’s behaviour had jeopardized production.

However, in a clear response to these assertions, director Abhishek Pathak clarified that Jaideep Ahlawat is not replacing Akshaye Khanna’s character. Speaking to media, the filmmaker said Ahlawat’s involvement will be as a newly written character, not as a recast of Khanna’s part — a distinction that reshapes the narrative around the casting changes.

Pathak also explained that Khanna exited the project after contracts were signed and just days before filming began, citing disagreements over character continuity — specifically relating to the actor’s look — and not solely remuneration. He emphasised that lead star Ajay Devgn entrusted him to handle the situation.

The controversy has sparked legal threats from the production side and divided attention among fans as Drishyam 3 proceeds toward its scheduled October 2, 2026 release with an adjusted cast and script.

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