Deepika Padukone becomes the highest paid actress with fees Rs.15 to 20 crore, surpasses Alia Bhatt, Katrina Kaif

Digital Desk: For years, we've heard about the big salaries Bollywood stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Akshay Kumar get for their roles in mainstream Hindi films. However, details regarding the compensation for actresses in these films have been less frequently disclosed. It's widely recognized that female stars generally earn significantly less than their male counterparts. Recently, a new report detailing actresses' earnings has surfaced.

According to Bollywood Hungama, Deepika Padukone, widely regarded as the foremost female star in the country, charges between Rs 15-20 crore per film. Following closely is Alia Bhatt, who reportedly commands Rs 15 crore per film. Deepika was last seen in Nag Ashwin’s futuristic film 'Kalki 2898 AD' and is presently on maternity leave. Alia, on the other hand, was last seen in 'Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani' and 'Heart of Stone' alongside Gal Gadot. Her upcoming projects include 'Jigra,' a YRF spy universe film, and Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s highly anticipated 'Love And War,' starring Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal.

Kareena Kapoor Khan, whose film 'Crew' with Tabu and Kriti Sanon enjoyed sleeper success at the box office, ranks next on the list of highest-paid actresses. Known for charging between Rs 8-11 crore per project, Kareena's next film is Hansal Mehta’s 'The Buckingham Murders,' without a male co-star.

Katrina Kaif and Shraddha Kapoor occupy the fourth and fifth positions, respectively, with Katrina earning approximately Rs 8-10 crore per film. Katrina has also been known to receive higher compensation than her male co-stars in films like 'Phone Bhoot' and 'Merry Christmas,' where she shared the screen with Tamil actor Vijay Sethupathi.

Kriti Sanon, Kiara Advani, Kangana Ranaut, and Taapsee Pannu are reported to charge between Rs 5 and 8 crore per film. Kriti's stock is rising due to consecutive hits and critical acclaim for her roles in films such as 'Mimi' and 'Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya.' Kiara is often referred to as a "lucky charm" due to her consistent track record, resulting in increased fees compared to two years ago. Taapsee and Kangana Ranaut, both acclaimed actors, are noted for leading their films and maintaining strong standing in the industry.

However, actresses' compensation varies widely and depends on multiple factors, fluctuating from project to project. For mainstream films with large ensemble casts, an actress might adjust her fees, whereas for solo-led projects, actresses typically command higher pay. A film producer mentioned to the publication, “If the production cost of a female-led project is only Rs 20-25 crores, he would not hesitate to pay the actress Rs 5 or even 7 crores. While she may charge less for a typical mainstream film with a male lead, the lower budget of her female-centric film allows for higher compensation since she shoulders the project.”