EXCLUSIVE: Akshaye Khanna’s ₹21 Crore Fee Demand Led to His Exit from Drishyam 3 -Inside the Real Story

The announcement of Drishyam 3 instantly created buzz, especially after the makers confirmed its release date as October 2, 2026. While the press note proudly listed Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran and Rajat Kapoor, one notable name was missing  Akshaye Khanna.

Given the actor’s powerful performance as IG Tarun Ahlawat in Drishyam 2 and his recent career high with Dhurandhar, the omission didn’t go unnoticed. Soon, speculation began, and now the real reason behind Akshaye Khanna’s exit has come to light.

According to Bollywood Hungama, remuneration turned out to be the biggest sticking point.

A source revealed that Akshaye Khanna, riding high on the appreciation he received for Chhaava and Dhurandhar, felt it was the right time to revise his fee. “He believed he had become a major value addition to any project he signed,” the source said, adding that the actor reportedly quoted a fee of ₹21 crore for Drishyam 3.

However, the makers were reportedly caught off guard by the figure. While they tried to explain that such a fee would push the film beyond its planned budget, Akshaye stood firm on his demand, convinced that his presence would significantly boost the film’s hype and commercial prospects.

But money wasn’t the only point of disagreement.

Another source mentioned that creative differences also played a role. Akshaye Khanna apparently expressed his desire to wear a wig for the third installment, a suggestion the makers were uncomfortable with  especially since his character’s look in Drishyam 2 did not involve one.

With neither side willing to compromise, the decision was eventually made to part ways.

“The separation was cordial,” a source clarified. “Akshaye wished the team well, and there’s no bad blood. Both sides are open to collaborating again in the future, provided they are on the same page.”

For now, Drishyam 3 moves ahead without one of its most memorable antagonists  a development that has left fans both surprised and curious about who will step into those shoes next.

Source credit: Bollywood Hungama