According to a recent Forbes report, Bollywood and South Indian cinema’s top stars are commanding staggering paychecks, showcasing the immense financial power within the Indian film industry. The list, compiled from IMDb data, highlights the highest-paid Indian actors for 2024.
Leading the pack is Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, affectionately known as “King Khan,” who earns between INR 150 crore to INR 250 crore per film, solidifying his status as one of the highest-earning celebrities in India’s cinematic landscape.
Following closely is South Indian superstar Rajinikanth, with an estimated salary ranging from INR 115 crore to INR 170 crore per film, showcasing the substantial influence and earning potential of actors from the southern film industry.
Joseph Vijay, another prominent figure in South Indian cinema, secures the third position with earnings between INR 130 crore and INR 250 crore per film, underscoring the increasing prominence and financial rewards within regional cinema sectors like Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada.
Bollywood’s “Mr Perfectionist,” Aamir Khan, continues to be a formidable presence, occupying the fifth spot with earnings ranging from INR 100 crore to INR 275 crore per film, driven by his consistent box office successes and critical acclaim.
Prabhas, celebrated for his roles in blockbusters like “Baahubali” and “RRR,” commands a salary between INR 100 crore and INR 200 crore per project, reflecting the global appeal and commercial success of his films.
Salman Khan, known for his mass appeal and box office draw, stands at the sixth position, earning between INR 100 crore and INR 150 crore per film, showcasing his enduring popularity among audiences.
The list also includes Akshay Kumar, Allu Arjun, Kamal Haasan, and Ajith Kumar, each contributing to the vibrant diversity and economic strength of Indian cinema through their substantial earnings and influential roles in shaping the industry’s narrative and global footprint.
Overall, Forbes’ ranking highlights how Bollywood and South Indian cinema continue to thrive financially, with these top stars setting new benchmarks in terms of earnings and industry influence on a global scale.
