Akshaye Khanna’s reported exit from Drishyam 3 has sparked widespread discussion within the industry, especially as it follows his critically acclaimed turn in Aditya Dhar’s spy drama Dhurandhar. As the issue continues to unfold—with the Drishyam producers reportedly issuing a legal notice—actor Arshad Warsi has offered a candid perspective on Khanna’s personality and working style.
Speaking during an interaction with Lallantop, Arshad described Akshaye as someone who has remained unchanged over the years, both personally and professionally. He characterised him as a serious individual who prefers to keep to himself and live life on his own terms. According to Arshad, Akshaye has never been concerned with public perception or industry politics and has consciously stayed away from publicity machinery throughout his career. He added that Khanna has always been this way and has never felt the need to engage with PR or external validation.
Both actors have had a strong year professionally. Akshaye Khanna is currently receiving praise for his performance in Dhurandhar, which has further reinforced his reputation as a dependable performer. Arshad Warsi, meanwhile, earned acclaim earlier this year for his role as Gafoor in The Ba**ds of Bollywood, marking another high point in his career.
Speculation around Akshaye’s exit from Drishyam 3 began when the makers announced October 2, 2026, as the film’s release date. While Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor were confirmed to return, Akshaye’s absence from the announcement stood out, prompting questions about his involvement.
The situation became clearer when producer Kumar Mangat Pathak publicly confirmed Khanna’s departure. In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Pathak revealed that Akshaye had been formally signed for the project and that his remuneration had been finalized after multiple rounds of renegotiation. However, creative disagreements reportedly arose when the actor insisted on wearing a wig for his character. Director Abhishek Pathak, according to the producer, felt this would cause continuity issues in a sequel and tried to dissuade him.
Pathak further made strong remarks about his past experiences working with Akshaye, alleging unprofessional behaviour on set. He claimed that despite warnings from others, he had cast Khanna in Section 375 (2019), which helped revive the actor’s career at the time. He later went on to sign him for Drishyam 2 (2022), after which Akshaye began receiving more prominent offers.
As Drishyam 3 moves forward without Akshaye Khanna, the controversy highlights the often complex intersection of creative choices, professional relationships, and personal working styles in the film industry—an aspect that continues to generate as much conversation off screen as on it.