Superstar Rajinikanth, the titan of Hindi cinema, charges astronomical fees and is said to be paid between Rs 125 crore and Rs 270 crore per film. His latest film ‘Coolie’ has grossed over Rs 518 crore globally, with the actor earning a staggering Rs 200 crore for his role. Looking to the future, exciting collaborations are on the horizon.
Tamil superstar Rajinikanth is not only ruling the Tamil box office but is also a legendary figure in the world of Hindi cinema. After completing more than 50 years in cinema, veteran actor Shivaji Rao Gaikwad, went from earning Rs 3 lakh from his initial project to becoming one of the highest-paid stars.
Let’s take a look at how much the “Coolie” star is getting paid for the project.
Rajinikanth charges huge per film
Being one of the highest-paid people in South Indian cinema, Rajinikanth earns between Rs 125 crore and Rs 270 crore per film, according to an Indian Express report. Talking about his latest film, the actor was last seen in Lokesh Kanagaraj’s ‘Coolie’, which released in 2025. According to Sakniklik, the film has globally collected more than Rs 518 crore.
Why does a small village in Maharashtra proudly call itself ‘Rajinikanth Village’?
How much did he pay for “Coolie”?
According to a Deccan Chronicle report, Rajinikanth was paid a staggering Rs 200 crore for his role in the film. It is also reported that it was initially scheduled to charge Rs 150 crore, but its fees increased after a surge in advance bookings. Additionally, before doing the 2025 thriller, Rajinikanth was seen in Vettaiyan for which he reportedly paid over Rs 125 crore.
The beginning of Rajinikanth’s career and salary
Rajinikanth made his debut with the Tamil film ‘Apoorva Raagangal’ and later starred in ‘Moondru Mudichu’ in 1975 and 1976 respectively.
According to Moneycontrol, the star received Rs 3,500 for the film during that period.
Upcoming movies in Rajinikanth’s lineup
On the work front, Rajinikanth is currently working on his upcoming film ‘Jailer 2’ directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. It is scheduled to be released in global theaters on August 14, 2026.Additionally, the Tamil star has some big projects in his lineup. He will be collaborating with Kamal Haasan in the film tentatively titled ‘Thalaivar173’, directed by Sippy Chakaravarthy and backed by the other Tamil giant.
Interestingly, Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan will also be seen together in another film titled ‘Thalaivar173 x KH 238’. The film marks their on-screen reunion after 46 years. The film is directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, and Anirudh Ravichander will compose the music.Disclaimer: The figures in this article are derived from various public sources and are considered approximate unless expressly indicated. We may include direct input from celebrities or their teams when available. We are open for feedback at toientertainment@timesinternet.in.
