Drishyam 3 Controversy: Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak Makes Shocking Remarks About Akshaye Khanna

By TeluguFunda / December 27, 2025

Actor Akshaye Khanna’s exit from Drishyam 3 has sparked intense discussion in Bollywood circles. For the past few days, reports have suggested that the actor walked out of the much-anticipated third installment of Ajay Devgn’s hit crime franchise due to remuneration issues. However, producer Kumar Mangat Pathak has now revealed a very different version of events, making some startling allegations against the actor.

In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Kumar Mangat Pathak stated that creative disagreements were at the heart of Akshaye Khanna’s exit. He revealed that the actor had insisted on wearing a wig for his character in Drishyam 3, a demand that left the makers shocked. According to the producer, director Abhishek Pathak explained that using a wig would create continuity problems, as the film is a direct sequel. While Akshaye initially agreed to drop the demand, Pathak claimed that people around the actor later influenced him otherwise.

“He was convinced by others that he would look smarter with a wig. After that, he informed us that he no longer wanted to be part of the film,” Kumar Mangat said.

The producer went on to make even more controversial remarks, recalling his past association with Akshaye Khanna. Pathak revealed that he cast the actor in Section 375 (2019) at a time when Akshaye was struggling professionally. He claimed that several people had warned him against working with the actor, citing unprofessional behavior.

“His energy on set is absolutely toxic,” Pathak alleged, adding that Section 375 played a major role in reviving Akshaye’s career. He further stated that the actor received significant opportunities only after Drishyam 2 (2022), pointing out that Akshaye had been without major work for several years prior.

Kumar Mangat also emphasized that the Drishyam franchise is driven by Ajay Devgn’s star power. He dismissed claims that Akshaye Khanna was responsible for the success of films like Dhurandhar, stating that those projects were headlined by major stars such as Ranveer Singh and Vicky Kaushal.

“If Akshaye does a solo film, it won’t even collect ₹50 crore in India,” the producer claimed, adding that the success of Dhurandhar seems to have gone to the actor’s head. “He needs to understand that multiple factors contributed to that film’s performance,” Pathak concluded.

Following Akshaye Khanna’s exit, Jaideep Ahlawat has officially been brought on board to replace him in Drishyam 3. The film remains one of the most eagerly awaited releases in the franchise, despite the controversy surrounding its casting.

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