Another big exit shakes Bollywood projects
Just a day after reports claimed Ranveer Singh stepped away from Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3, Bollywood seems to be witnessing another unexpected exit. This time, it’s Akshaye Khanna, who has reportedly walked out of Drishyam 3, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2022 blockbuster Drishyam 2.
The development has sparked fresh chatter in industry circles, especially with two major names reportedly exiting high-profile franchises almost back-to-back.
Why Akshaye Khanna reportedly stepped away
According to a report by Bollywood Machine, Akshaye Khanna has exited Drishyam 3 due to a mix of financial and creative differences with the makers.
The report suggests that following the massive success of Dhurandhar, Akshaye asked for a significant hike in his remuneration. Alongside the financial aspect, the actor is also said to have requested specific changes to his on-screen look for the third Drishyam installment.
These discussions reportedly stretched into pre-production but failed to reach a middle ground. With neither side willing to compromise, Akshaye is said to have decided to step away from the project altogether.
As of now, neither the actor nor the film’s production team has issued an official confirmation.
Timing adds to the surprise
What makes this development more striking is the timing. The news comes right after reports of Ranveer Singh exiting Don 3, allegedly because he didn’t want to take on back-to-back gangster-heavy roles. Together, these exits have fueled conversations about creative fatigue, image management, and post-blockbuster renegotiations in Bollywood.
Akshaye’s Dhurandhar high
Akshaye Khanna is currently riding a career high after his widely praised performance in Aditya Dhar’s spy thriller Dhurandhar. Playing Rehman Dakait, the cold and calculating leader of the Baloch Gang, Akshaye delivered what many critics and viewers have called one of the strongest performances of the year.
The film’s box office dominance has only strengthened his standing, making his reported exit from Drishyam 3 all the more noteworthy.
What this means for Drishyam 3
With Drishyam 3 being one of the most awaited sequels in recent years, Akshaye’s reported exit could lead to casting reshuffles or creative recalibrations. Whether the makers recast the role or attempt to rework negotiations remains to be seen.
For now, fans will have to wait for an official word.
Final words
If the reports turn out to be true, Akshaye Khanna’s exit from Drishyam 3 signals a shifting dynamic in Bollywood — where post-success leverage, creative control, and career strategy are playing a bigger role than ever. With multiple big projects facing turbulence, the industry’s next moves will be closely watched.
