Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan recently revealed that he was discouraged from casting Akshaye Khanna in his 1998 film, "Doli Saja Ke Rakhna". In an interview, Priyadarshan recalled being warned about Khanna's temperament, with many suggesting that the actor was "difficult and moody". However, the director trusted his instincts and cast Khanna, a decision he has never regretted.

"In my first film with Akshaye Khanna, 'Doli Saja Ke Rakhna' (1998), everybody had discouraged me from signing him on. They said he is difficult and moody,” Priyadarshan stated. Defying this perception, Priyadarshan said he "fell in love with him from the first film itself". Contrary to the warnings, the director found Khanna to be punctual, cooperative, and a pleasure to work with. “I never found him difficult. If I called him at 5 am, he would be there on time. He is a darling, and we've never had a bitter moment together," he added.

Their collaboration extended far beyond their initial project. Priyadarshan and Khanna went on to work together in several successful films, including "Hulchul" (2004), "Mere Baap Pehle Aap" (2008), and "Hungama". These films solidified their professional relationship, proving the initial reservations about Khanna's behavior wrong. Priyadarshan has consistently praised Khanna's professionalism and dedication over the years.

The director's defense of Khanna comes in the wake of recent comments made by producer Kumar Mangat Pathak regarding Khanna's alleged behavior during the pre-production of "Drishyam 3". Pathak claimed that Khanna had left the film just ten days before shooting was set to begin, citing disagreements over the actor's insistence on wearing a wig. Pathak labeled Khanna as "unprofessional and toxic".

Priyadarshan's account offers a contrasting perspective, highlighting a positive and enduring working relationship with the actor. He emphasized that in their six films together, he never experienced any negativity from Khanna. "He is least bothered by criticism," Priyadarshan stated, suggesting that Khanna is unaffected by external opinions.

Akshaye Khanna is currently being featured in Aditya Dhar's spy thriller "Dhurandhar" alongside Ranveer Singh. Priyadarshan has congratulated Aditya Dhar for the success of "Dhurandhar". Moreover, Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar are reuniting after nearly 15 years for the horror-comedy "Bhooth Bangla", which also stars Tabu, Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Jisshu Sengupta, Asrani, and Wamiqa Gabbi.