After Dhurandhar Blockbuster, Akshaye Khanna Walks Out of Drishyam 3
Akshaye Khanna Exits Drishyam 3 After Massive Fee Hike Following Dhurandhar Success: Ranveer Singh’s blockbuster Dhurandhar, released just 22 days ago, continues to dominate the box office with unstoppable momentum. Instead of slowing down, the film’s earnings have surged daily, crossing ₹600 crore in India and heading rapidly toward the ₹1000 crore mark worldwide. While Ranveer Singh headlines the film, much of the buzz and repeat footfalls are being credited to Akshaye Khanna’s electrifying performance as the dacoit Rehman.
Akshaye Khanna’s swagger, acting prowess, dance moves, and distinctive style went viral soon after the film’s release, prompting audiences to flock to theatres. The actor’s career has witnessed a dramatic upswing, placing him among the most in-demand performers in the industry today.
However, this newfound success has also led to a major development. Akshaye Khanna, who played a key role in Drishyam 2 (2022), has reportedly exited Ajay Devgn’s upcoming Drishyam 3. The reason behind his departure is said to be a substantial increase in his acting fee.
₹21 Crore Fee Demand? Akshaye Khanna Drops Out of Drishyam 3
According to reports, Akshaye Khanna was paid approximately ₹2.5 crore for Drishyam 2, while Ajay Devgn earned around ₹30 crore. In light of his recent back-to-back successes—playing Aurangzeb in Chava (2025) and Rehman in Dhurandhar—Akshaye has reportedly demanded a fee of ₹21 crore for Drishyam 3. This steep hike is said to have unsettled the film’s makers, significantly impacting the project’s budget.
Drishyam 3, scheduled for release on October 2, 2026, will star Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Rajat Kapoor. Fans were quick to notice Akshaye Khanna’s absence from the cast list, especially given the strong impression he left in the second installment. Reports later confirmed that negotiations fell through due to differences over remuneration.
In addition to financial concerns, there were also creative disagreements. Akshaye reportedly suggested wearing a wig for his character in Drishyam 3, an idea the makers were not keen on, pointing out that he had declined to do so in Drishyam 2. With neither side willing to compromise, the actor decided to step away from the project.
Despite the exit, sources say the separation was amicable. Akshaye Khanna has conveyed his best wishes to the team, and both parties remain open to collaborating again in the future. As his popularity continues to soar, the industry now watches closely to see which major project the actor signs next.
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