Amid ongoing casting discussions around Drishyam 3, director Abhishek Pathak has clarified that actor Jaideep Ahlawat has not replaced Akshaye Khanna in the franchise. Instead, Ahlawat will be seen in an entirely new role in the third instalment of the Ajay Devgn-led thriller, which is currently in development.
The clarification comes after weeks of speculation following Akshaye Khanna’s confirmed exit from the project.
What Happened?
Reports earlier suggested that Jaideep Ahlawat would step into Akshaye Khanna’s shoes as the antagonist in Drishyam 3. The assumption stemmed from comments made by the film’s producer, Kumar Mangat Pathak, who had confirmed Ahlawat’s casting after Khanna’s departure.
However, director Abhishek Pathak has now addressed the speculation directly, stating that the two actors will not be playing the same character.
Official Confirmation or Sources
In an interview with Bombay Times, Abhishek Pathak clarified the situation, saying,
“No, Jaideep is not replacing Akshaye. I’m writing a new character.”
This statement confirms that Drishyam 3 will expand its narrative with a fresh role rather than recasting an existing one. His remarks, however, were interpreted by some as a direct replacement, which the director has now dispelled.
Why Did Akshaye Khanna Exit Drishyam 3?
Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak previously shared details regarding Akshaye Khanna’s exit in a separate interaction with Bollywood Hungama. According to him, the departure occurred after creative and logistical discussions during pre-production.
Pathak stated that Khanna had requested to wear a wig for continuity, a suggestion that director Abhishek Pathak felt would not work practically for a sequel. While the matter was initially resolved, the actor later chose to step away from the project altogether.
Akshaye Khanna has not issued any public statement addressing these claims so far.
Jay-Ho! Insight
The Drishyam franchise is one of Bollywood’s most successful thriller series, with both previous films receiving strong critical and commercial response. Any casting change within such a high-stakes franchise naturally draws attention, particularly when it involves actors of the calibre of Akshaye Khanna and Jaideep Ahlawat.
Ahlawat, known for his intense screen presence and layered performances, joining Drishyam 3 in a newly written role suggests that the filmmakers are looking to evolve the narrative rather than replicate past dynamics.
Public and Fan Reaction
Fans of the franchise have responded with curiosity rather than concern, with many welcoming Jaideep Ahlawat’s addition while also expressing interest in how the new character will fit into Vijay Salgaonkar’s world. Online discussions have largely focused on the creative possibilities the casting brings, rather than comparisons between actors.
What’s Next?
Drishyam 3 will once again star Ajay Devgn and Tabu in lead roles, with further casting details expected to be announced in due course. The film is currently in the scripting and pre-production stage, with the makers maintaining tight control over plot disclosures.
Jay-Ho! will update this story as more details emerge.
