The Top 10 Highest Paid Actors in India: A Journey Through Their Movies, Success, and Stardom
India's film industry, spanning Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood, and more, boasts some of the highest-paid actors in the world. Their massive fan following, stellar performances, and box-office successes have made them household names. Here's an in-depth look at the top 10 highest-paid actors in India, exploring their films, achievements, and influence.

1. Shah Rukh Khan
The King of Bollywood
-
Notable Movies: Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Chennai Express, Pathaan, Raees
-
Achievements: With over three decades in the industry, Shah Rukh Khan is known for his romantic roles and versatility. He has won numerous Filmfare Awards and is globally recognized as a brand ambassador for Indian cinema.
-
Film Status: His recent blockbuster Pathaan broke several records, reaffirming his status as a box-office king.
-
Paycheck: Shah Rukh reportedly charges over ₹100 crore per film, including profit-sharing deals.
2. Salman Khan
The Sultan of the Box Office
-
Notable Movies: Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Tiger Zinda Hai, Sultan, Kick
-
Achievements: Known for his larger-than-life roles, Salman Khan has delivered countless blockbusters. He’s also the host of the popular TV show Bigg Boss.
-
Film Status: Salman’s Tiger franchise continues to be a massive hit, with new installments eagerly awaited.
-
Paycheck: Salman commands around ₹100-125 crore per film.
3. Akshay Kumar
The Khiladi of Bollywood
-
Notable Movies: Sooryavanshi, Mission Mangal, Kesari, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha
-
Achievements: Akshay’s commitment to socially relevant cinema and action-packed performances have earned him immense respect. He’s one of the most prolific actors, with multiple releases each year.
-
Film Status: Known for balancing commercial success and meaningful stories, his movies consistently perform well.
-
Paycheck: Akshay charges around ₹80-120 crore per film.
4. Rajinikanth
Thalaiva of Indian Cinema
-
Notable Movies: Enthiran (Robot), Kabali, Petta, Jailer
-
Achievements: Rajinikanth’s iconic style and charisma transcend language barriers. With a career spanning over four decades, he remains a cultural phenomenon.
-
Film Status: His latest film Jailer created a storm at the box office, solidifying his legendary status.
-
Paycheck: Rajinikanth earns around ₹100-150 crore per film.
5. Prabhas
The Pan-India Star
-
Notable Movies: Baahubali: The Beginning, Baahubali: The Conclusion, Saaho, Adipurush
-
Achievements: Prabhas gained international fame with the Baahubali series, becoming a symbol of pan-Indian cinema.
-
Film Status: Despite mixed reviews for some recent films, his massive fanbase ensures a strong box-office pull.
-
Paycheck: Prabhas reportedly charges around ₹125 crore per film.
6. Aamir Khan
The Perfectionist
-
Notable Movies: Dangal, PK, 3 Idiots, Lagaan
-
Achievements: Known for his selective approach and meticulous preparation, Aamir’s films often become milestones in Indian cinema.
-
Film Status: His recent film Laal Singh Chaddha saw a mixed response but his legacy remains unshaken.
-
Paycheck: Aamir follows a profit-sharing model and earns around ₹150 crore per project.
7. Hrithik Roshan
The Greek God of Bollywood
-
Notable Movies: War, Super 30, Koi... Mil Gaya, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
-
Achievements: Known for his exceptional dancing skills and acting range, Hrithik is a consistent performer at the box office.
-
Film Status: His film War was a blockbuster, and his upcoming projects are highly anticipated.
-
Paycheck: Hrithik earns around ₹80-100 crore per film.
8. Allu Arjun
The Stylish Star
-
Notable Movies: Pushpa: The Rise, Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo, Arya
-
Achievements: Allu Arjun’s performance in Pushpa garnered pan-Indian acclaim, making him a household name across the country.
-
Film Status: Pushpa 2 is one of the most awaited films.
-
Paycheck: Allu Arjun reportedly charges around ₹100-150 crore per film.
9. Ajay Devgn
The Versatile Superstar
-
Notable Movies: Drishyam 2, Tanhaji, Singham, Golmaal series
-
Achievements: With a career spanning over three decades, Ajay’s ability to adapt to different roles has made him a bankable star.
-
Film Status: Drishyam 2 was a major hit, reaffirming his acting prowess.
-
Paycheck: Ajay earns around ₹80 crore per film.
10. Ram Charan
The Mega Power Star
-
Notable Movies: RRR, Magadheera, Dhruva
-
Achievements: Ram Charan’s role in RRR catapulted him to global fame, earning accolades from audiences worldwide.
-
Film Status: RRR was a global blockbuster, winning several awards.
-
Paycheck: Ram Charan charges around ₹80-100 crore per film.
Conclusion: The Titans of Indian Cinema
These actors are not just stars; they are institutions in themselves, setting benchmarks with their performances and massive earnings. Their influence extends beyond cinema, as they shape pop culture and inspire millions. With their exceptional talent and dedication, these top 10 actors continue to redefine the boundaries of Indian cinema.
Rank | Actor | Major Films | Paycheck (₹ Cr) | Notable Achievement |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Shah Rukh Khan | Pathaan, DDLJ | 100+ | King of Romance |
2 | Salman Khan | Tiger Zinda Hai, Bajrangi Bhaijaan | 100-125 | Box-Office Sultan |
3 | Akshay Kumar | Sooryavanshi, Mission Mangal | 80-120 | Versatile Performer |
4 | Rajinikanth | Jailer, Enthiran | 100-150 | Thalaiva Legend |
5 | Prabhas | Baahubali, Saaho | 125 | Pan-Indian Superstar |
6 | Aamir Khan | Dangal, PK | 150 | Cinema Perfectionist |
7 | Hrithik Roshan | War, Koi... Mil Gaya | 80-100 | Greek God of Bollywood |
8 | Allu Arjun | Pushpa2: The Rule | 100-300 | Stylish Star Phenomenon |
9 | Ajay Devgn | Drishyam 2, Singham | 80 | Versatility Icon |
10 | Ram Charan | RRR, Magadheera | 80-100 | Global Blockbuster Star |