Overview
- Kumar Mangat Pathak says Jaideep Ahlawat has replaced Khanna and that production is moving ahead for an October 2, 2026 release.
- The producer alleges Khanna withdrew about 10–12 days before filming, shortly before December 4, after paperwork, payments and costume work were completed.
- A legal notice has been issued seeking compensation, with Pathak claiming recasting and script changes cost over ₹1 crore, and he says there has been no reply.
- Pathak cites fee renegotiations and a look request that raised continuity concerns; in a later interview he said money was not the reason for the exit.
- Arshad Warsi praised Khanna as a private, self-directed performer, fans voiced support online, and Khanna has not publicly responded.