The Indian film industry has witnessed a remarkable evolution over the years, not only in terms of storytelling and technology but also in the compensation of its leading actors. The early 1990s marked a significant shift as several stars broke through the Rs.1 crore remuneration barrier, setting new benchmarks for the industry.
The legendary Telugu actor, Chiranjeevi, became the first Indian actor to earn over Rs.1 crore per film with his 1992 release, Aapadbandhavudu. This achievement underscored his immense popularity and the draw of his star power in the South Indian film industry. Chiranjeevi’s feat opened the doors for other actors to aspire to similar heights.
Sridevi, often hailed as one of India’s first pan-India stars, was the first female actor to charge Rs.1 crore per film. She set this precedent with her 1993 release, Roop Ki Rani Choron Ka Raja. Sridevi’s charisma and talent had captivated audiences across the nation, and her groundbreaking remuneration reflected her unparalleled status in Indian cinema. Her ability to command such a high fee was a testament to her wide-ranging appeal and the significant impact she had on the industry.
Following close on their heels were Kamal Haasan and Amitabh Bachchan, who joined the Rs.1 crore club in the mid-90s. Both actors were already established legends, and their inclusion in this exclusive club further cemented their positions as giants of Indian cinema. Their journey to this milestone highlighted their enduring popularity and the high regard in which they were held by both audiences and filmmakers.
From 1992 to 1997, the three Khans—Shah Rukh, Salman, and Aamir—dominated the Bollywood landscape alongside stars like Sunny Deol and Sanjay Dutt. However, during this period, their remuneration ranged between Rs.50-75 lakh. It was only in the late 90s, as their careers soared, that they breached the Rs.1 crore mark, by which time Sridevi had already stepped away from films. The Khans’ rise to this milestone marked the beginning of a new era in Bollywood, where their collective star power would come to define the industry for years to come.
These milestones not only highlight the remarkable journeys of these actors but also mark key moments in the evolution of the Indian film industry. As cinema continues to grow and transform, the achievements of these pioneers remain a testament to their enduring legacy and the ever-evolving landscape of stardom and compensation in Indian cinema.
