Veteran actor Prakash Raj has confirmed he has begun filming for the Hindi version of Drishyam 3, joining Ajay Devgn’s popular thriller franchise. He shared the update on February 10, 2026, and directly addressed the online speculation around “replacement” rumours.
The Post That Set the Record Straight
Announcing the start of his shoot, Prakash wrote on X that he has a “scintillating role” and added a clear disclaimer that he is not stepping in for anyone.
Why the Clarification Matters
His statement comes after Akshaye Khanna’s reported exit from Drishyam 3 created a wave of casting speculation. In earlier reports, producer Kumar Mangat Pathak confirmed Akshaye’s departure and said Jaideep Ahlawat has been brought in for a newly designed character function, rather than a direct replacement.
Director Abhishek Pathak has also publicly stated that Jaideep is not replacing Akshaye and that the team is writing a new character.
What We Know About Drishyam 3 So Far
Director and Core Franchise Continuity
- Abhishek Pathak returns to direct the third instalment.
- Ajay Devgn reprises Vijay Salgaonkar, with returning cast members including Tabu and Shriya Saran.
Prakash Raj’s Role
Reports describe his part as a major addition, with Prakash himself teasing it as a “scintillating role”—but details are being kept under wraps.
Release Date
A Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) filing by Panorama Studios previously indicated Drishyam 3 is slated for theatrical release on October 2, 2026.
What This Means for the Buzz
With principal photography underway and the ensemble continuing to evolve, Prakash Raj’s entry—plus the Jaideep-Akshaye storyline—has only amplified curiosity around how the next chapter reshapes the franchise’s investigative cat-and-mouse tension.
-By Manoj H