In the glitzy world of Bollywood, discussions about actors’ hefty paychecks often overshadow those of actresses. But times are changing, and the spotlight is now on the leading ladies and their earnings.
Deepika Padukone Leads the Pack
At the forefront is Deepika Padukone, hailed as Bollywood’s reigning queen, commanding an impressive fee of Rs 15-20 crore per film. Known for her roles in blockbusters like Chennai Express and Padmaavat, Deepika’s star power continues to soar, even during her current maternity break.
Alia Bhatt’s Close Pursuit
Following closely behind is Alia Bhatt, securing a solid Rs 15 crore per film. Her versatility from Raazi to Gangubai Kathiawadi has cemented her position as one of Bollywood’s most bankable stars. With upcoming projects like Jigra and a collaboration with Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love And War, Alia’s star is set to shine brighter.
Kareena Kapoor Khan
Kareena Kapoor Khan, known for her iconic roles and effortless charm, charges between Rs 8-11 crore per project. Her recent sleeper hit Crew with Tabu and Kriti Sanon showcases her enduring appeal. Up next for Kareena is Hansal Mehta’s The Buckingham Murders, where she takes center stage without a male co-star.
The Rising Stars: Kriti Sanon and Kiara Advani
Joining the league of high earners are Kriti Sanon and Kiara Advani, each commanding fees in the range of Rs 5-8 crore per film. Kriti’s recent successes with Mimi and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya have boosted her market value, while Kiara’s reputation as a “lucky charm” has seen her fees rise steadily.
The disparity in earnings between male and female stars remains stark in Bollywood, with actresses often earning less. However, factors like the film’s budget and star cast can influence their paychecks significantly. For instance, in female-centric projects where the actress shoulders the film’s weight, fees can match or exceed those of their male counterparts in mainstream films.
Industry Insights
According to industry insiders, producers are willing to invest more in actresses for solo-led projects where the actress plays a pivotal role. Despite the traditional pay gap, these projects can see actresses earning competitively, reflecting their critical and commercial value.
While Bollywood continues to evolve, the financial dynamics for actresses are gradually shifting. With talents like Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt leading the charge, supported by emerging stars like Kriti Sanon and Kiara Advani, the industry is witnessing a transformation in how actresses are valued and compensated. As audiences demand more diverse and compelling narratives, the role of actresses in driving these stories forward becomes increasingly vital—and their paychecks, are a testament to their growing influence.
While the figures may vary, one thing is clear: Bollywood’s leading ladies are making their mark both on screen and in the balance sheets, challenging norms and paving the way for a more equitable future in Indian cinema.
