The Kannada film industry has been growing rapidly over the recent years, with the Sandalwood stars now commanding paychecks that reflect the national stage they are on.
All thanks to the pan-India hits like KGF Chapter 2 and Kantara, actors from Karnataka are not just regional actors but have reached a different league. With that being said, let’s take a look at the top five highest-paid Kannada actors in 2025, their estimated fees, and what makes them the top-paid actors.
1. Yash ( Between 60 crore – 100 crore per movie)
Given the massive success of KGF and other hit projects, Yash now sits at the very top of the pay chart. From a mere TV actor earning Rs. 300 per day to now one of India’s highest-paid stars, Yash has truly dominated the industry.
As per the reports, his fee per movie is estimated to be around Rs 60-100 crores. His pan-India popularity, action star image, and brand value set him apart from the other actors, going beyond the Kannada Industry. His bold ‘Rocky Bhai’ persona and blockbuster credentials clearly explain how he sits at the top among the highest-paid Kannada actors.
2. Darshan Thoogudeepa (Between 20 crore – 25 crore per movie)
Darshan has a long history of becoming the “Challenging Star” of the industry. With an unmatched fan base hailing from Mysuru, Mandya, and cities across Karnataka, this ‘Kaatera’ star commands the second spot as the highest-paid Kannada actor.
Darshan has a long career of box-office hits, and his recent strong performances have raised his demand in the industry. Reports suggest that he charges around Rs 20 – 25 crore per film.
3. Kichha Sudeep (Between Rs 10 crore – 25 crore)
The overnight ‘Huchcha’ star Sudeep is not only a hard-working working versatile actor but also a TV personality. His pan – Indian footprints, that is, working in other industries like Tollywood and Bollywood, have landed him third position in the top five highest-paid stars.
As the host of the hit reality show Big Boss Kannada, Sudeep is not just a movie icon but also a television mainstay, which explains his high-budget profile very well. According to the sources, Sudeep’s fee for Kannada projects is estimated between Rs 10-25 crore.
4. Rishab Shetty (Between Rs 10 crore -15 crore)
Rishab has climbed the success stairs quickly, particularly after the success of Kantara, which made his name more than a brand. Coming from a small village, Kundapura, in coastal Karnataka, with zero connections in the huge industry, Rishab’s rise is as cinematic as Kantara itself.
A movie that became a nationwide blockbuster transformed him into one of the most respected and highest-paid stars. He reportedly charges around Rs. 10-15 crore per movie.
5. Upendra (Between Rs 10 crore -15 crore)
Director, writer and Cult-thinker, Upendra maintains his position as the “Real star”, standing amongst the most highest-paid veteran stars. Over three decades, he has built a reputation of most experimental storyteller of Sandalwood. His 2024 fim ‘UI’ collected around Rs. 26.3 crore in the first week of its release.
The actor known for his big hits like his self-titled movie ‘Upendra’ (1999), Super, and Uppi 2 has gained a massive fame and success in the past years. According to the latest reports Upendra commands around Rs. 10-15 crore for his projects which justifies his multi-dimentional contribution to the industry.
Takeaway
The remuneration figures in Sandalwood are testimony to the fact that Kannada cinema has moved into a higher gear. From local heroes to national stars, these actors are earning fees comparable to big ventures.
2025 is all about Kannada Cinema’s ‘Big 5’ marking their market value which not only shows their craft but also answers to why they are in demand. Their soaring paychecks are not just numbers but the reflection of an industry that’s finally getting the recognition it deserves.
Written by: Supriya