- By Tanya Garg
- Fri, 26 Dec 2025 08:45 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Akshaye Khanna, who recently won praise for his role in Dhurandhar, reportedly quit Drishyam 3 because of concerns over compensation and creative disagreements with the producers. For those who don't know, Akshaye Khanna appeared in the second installment of the crime thriller film alongside Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor. He portrayed IG Tarun Ahlawat, a character who gave the story more nuance and suspense in Drishyam 2.
Akshaye Khanna's performance elevated the narrative stakes of the Ajay Devgn-led sequel. After his recent back-to -back blockbuster hits Dhurandhar and Chhaava, the actor was anticipated to return to his role in Drishyam 3.
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Akshaye Khanna and the creators of Drishyam 3 were at odds over compensation, as per a report by Bollywood Hungama. His recent achievement made him reevaluate his market value, according to a person familiar with the situation. "Akshaye was menacing as the villain in Chhaava and completely stole the show in Dhurandhar. He has clearly emerged as one of the most in-demand actors at the moment. Realising this, he revised his fees and asked for Rs 21 crore for Drishyam 3," the source stated.
Drishyam 3 production team allegedly wasn't prepared for the fee hike. According to the source, the producers made an effort to talk sense into Akshaye Khanna's head by pointing out that such a high salary would drastically exceed the film's budget. However, Akshaye Khanna was reportedly adamant about his amended demands since he thought his involvement would significantly increase the movie's commercial appeal and public interest—especially given the high recall value his character held from the last edition.
Akshaye Khanna and Drishyam makers also had creative disagreements in addition to financial concerns. According to a different source, the actor proposed altering his appearance on screen for Drishyam 3, possibly by wearing a wig.
On October 2, 2026, Drishyam 3 is scheduled to be released.