Mumbai: Actor Akshay Khanna, currently riding high on the blockbuster success of Dhurandhar, which has grossed over ₹1,000 crore worldwide, is now embroiled in a controversy surrounding the upcoming film Drishyam-3.
According to sources, Akshay reportedly demanded changes to his fee and appearance following the success of Dhurandhar. Unable to meet these demands, he withdrew from the project just 10 days before the shooting schedule was set to begin.
Producer Kumar Mangat confirmed that a formal contract had been signed with the actor after extensive discussions and that an advance payment had already been made. “We had been planning Drishyam-3 for two years. Akshay was fully aware of the script and had approved it. We discussed his fee three times and provided an advance. He was offered three times more than his initial demand,” Kumar said.
However, shortly before the release of Dhurandhar, Akshay reportedly sent a message stating he would not proceed with the film. Attempts to reach him via calls or messages went unanswered.
For the unversed, Drishyam 3 also stars Ajay Devgn, Tabu, and Jaideep Ahlawat in key roles. Producer Kumar Mangat Pathak spoke at length about the actor’s sudden exit, admitting that he struggled to wrap his head around the latest development. It wasn’t until two weeks before the team was set to begin shooting that Akshaye backed out, and despite their efforts to get him back on the film, he remained adamant about his decision.
Pathak said, “At least walk out graciously. How can you not respond to calls and messages?”
This prompted Panorama Studios to consider sending him a legal notice.
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