Drishyam 3 nearly lost its schedule. Director Abhishek Pathak has now spoken about Akshaye Khanna’s sudden exit from the film.

Khanna walked out just seven days before filming was to begin. The news first emerged in December 2025. Reports pointed to creative and money disagreements. The makers also spoke of a last-minute demand about a wig.

In an interview with Hindustan Times, Pathak said the team was unhappy but did not panic. He recalled thinking, what kind of manner is this.

The team had two choices. Delay the shoot or find a replacement fast. They chose speed. Jaideep Ahlawat was brought in within five to six days.

Pathak did not simply replace the actor. He reworked the character itself. Ahlawat read the new material and found it fun.

Stopping the shoot was not an option, Pathak said. More than 200 people depended on the project. The sets were ready. The cast and crew had locked their dates.

Drishyam 3 is the third and final part of the Hindi franchise. Ajay Devgn returns in the lead role.