Drishyam 3 Director Slams Akshaye Khanna, Challenges Him to Deliver a Solo Hit

Actor Akshaye Khanna has landed in controversy after walking out of Drishyam 3, prompting sharp reactions from the film’s makers. Director Abhishek Pathak, in a recent interview, openly expressed his disappointment and issued a direct challenge to the actor, questioning his ability to carry a solo film on his own.

Following the success of Dhurandhar, Akshaye Khanna reportedly exited Drishyam 3 just days before the shoot was scheduled to begin. Earlier, producer Kumar Mangat Pathak had alleged that the actor’s attitude changed after tasting success, claiming that the film’s popularity had “gone to his head.”

Now, director Abhishek Pathak has broken his silence. Speaking to ETimes, he revealed that the entire episode unfolded after the contract was signed in November. “Five days before the shoot, Akshaye walked out. His look was finalized, costumes were being prepared, and the narration was completed. He loved the story,” Pathak stated.

Clarifying the reason behind the fallout, Pathak addressed reports of a disagreement over wearing a wig. He explained that Drishyam 3 begins exactly where Drishyam 2 ended, making it illogical for the character to suddenly wear a wig. “We discussed this with him and had even resolved the issue, but later he started insisting on it again. Before things could be sorted out, he quit the film,” the director said.

Pathak also dismissed claims that Akshaye Khanna was offered a fee of ₹21 crore, calling the reports “completely baseless” and allegedly spread by the actor himself. While refusing to disclose the actual remuneration, he emphasized that unnecessary drama began only after the paperwork was completed.

Taking a sharp dig, the director remarked, “People around him seem to be telling him that he’s becoming a superstar and should do something to grab all the attention. I wish him well and suggest he tries delivering a solo hit now.” He added that continuing the discussion felt pointless, as the actor appeared to be “living in a different world.”

Meanwhile, Pathak confirmed that Ajay Devgn, the franchise’s lead actor, chose not to interfere and left the matter entirely to the director and the production team.

The controversy has sparked intense debate within the industry, with many questioning the professionalism of backing out after contractual commitments—especially at such a critical stage of production.