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In a recent list published by Forbes, Shah Rukh Khan tops as the richest actor in India, boasting a staggering net worth of Rs 6300 crore. The list, compiled from IMDb data, also features other top-earning actors include Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Rajinikanth, Akshay Kumar, Allu Arjun, Aamir Khan, Thalapathy Vijay, Prabhas, Ajith Kumar, and Kamal Haasan., highlighting the financial success of both Bollywood and South Indian cinema stars.
Bollywood vs. South Indian Cinema: A Shift in Dominance
For over a century, Bollywood has been the heart of India’s visual media, captivating the country’s Hindi-speaking population. This has often led to the assumption that Bollywood actors are the highest-paid in the industry. However, the past few years have seen a shift in this narrative. The immense success of South Indian films like Baahubali, RRR, Pushpa, and Arjun Reddy has transformed the landscape. These films have achieved cult status nationwide, elevating South Indian actors to the top ranks of the highest earners.
Forbes’ Top 10 Highest-Paid Indian Actors
According to Forbes, which used data from IMDb, the list of the top 10 highest-paid Indian actors in 2024 showcases a blend of talent from Bollywood and South Indian cinema. Shah Rukh Khan stands at the pinnacle, followed by notable names like Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Allu Arjun, Akshay Kumar, and Rajinikanth.
Shah Rukh Khan: The Undisputed King
Net Worth: Rs 6300 Crore
Popularly known as King Khan, Shah Rukh Khan has overcome several flops to reaffirm his dominance with recent blockbusters Jawan and Pathaan, both grossing over Rs 2000 crore worldwide. His latest release, Dunki, continues to perform well, solidifying his status as Bollywood’s highest-paid star.
Salman Khan: The Ever-Popular ‘Bhai’
Net Worth: Rs 2900 Crore
Salman Khan, evolving from a romantic hero to a beloved ‘bhai,’ remains one of India’s top-paid actors. His recent release, Tiger 3, has grossed over Rs 466.63 crore worldwide.
Akshay Kumar: The Versatile Star
Net Worth: Rs 2500 Crore
Akshay Kumar is celebrated for his comedic and socially relevant films. Despite a lack of major hits in 2023, his guest role in OMG 2 saw the film gross Rs 221 crore worldwide.
Aamir Khan: Mr. Perfectionist
Net Worth: Rs 1862 Crore
Aamir Khan is known for his meticulous approach to filmmaking. Although Laal Singh Chaddha underperformed, he aims for a strong comeback with Sitaare Zameen Par in 2024, following past successes like Dangal and PK.
Thalapathy Vijay: The Tamil Superstar
Net Worth: Rs 474 Crore
Vijay, a top South Indian actor, has a career spanning over two decades. His 2023 films, Varisu and Leo, grossed Rs 300 crore and Rs 612 crore worldwide, respectively, with Leo being the highest-grossing Tamil film of the year.
Rajinikanth: The Legendary Icon
Net Worth: Rs 430 Crore
Rajinikanth, a revered figure in South India, continues to command immense respect. His recent hit, Jailer, earned him Rs 110 crore, reaffirming his legendary status.
Allu Arjun: The Stylish Star
Net Worth: Rs 350 Crore
Known for his role in Pushpa: The Rise, Allu Arjun is poised to break records with the upcoming sequel, Pushpa: The Rule – Part 2.
Prabhas: The Baahubali Star
Net Worth: Rs 241 Crore
Prabhas gained immense fame with the Baahubali series. Despite controversies surrounding Adipurush, his latest film Salaar grossed Rs 369.37 crore domestically, surpassing Rajinikanth’s Jailer.
Ajith Kumar: The Action Hero
Net Worth: Rs 196 Crore
Ajith Kumar, another top South Indian actor, impressed audiences with his 2023 release Thunivu, which earned Rs 130 crore in India.
Kamal Haasan: The Veteran Actor
Net Worth: Rs 150 Crore
Kamal Haasan has appeared in around 220 films. Fans eagerly await his next project, KH 234, directed by Mani Ratnam.
This diverse blend of Bollywood and South Indian stars highlights the evolving dynamics of India’s film industry, where talent from all corners of the country continues to thrive and captivate audiences globally.
