Indian cinema is one of the biggest film industries in the world, with audiences far beyond India’s borders. Bollywood and South Indian films draw huge crowds not just at home, but also in countries like the US, China, Australia and Nigeria.
For years, actors were the main stars while directors quietly worked behind the scenes. That has clearly changed. Today, directors are household names too, and many of them are paid just as much, sometimes even more, for the vision they bring to the screen.
Highest paid film director in India 2025
SS Rajamouli
SS Rajamouli’s global success with RRR has elevated Indian cinema to new heights, and his films consistently promise scale, spectacle, and box-office dominance. Varanasi is being known as a pan-world project, and given Rajamouli’s track record, expectations are sky-high. His reported remuneration of Rs 200 crore reflects both his market value and the confidence producers place in his vision.
Sandeep Reddy Vanga
Close behind is Sandeep Reddy Vanga, who has emerged as one of the most talked-about directors in recent years. After the massive success of Animal, Vanga is reportedly charging between Rs 100 and Rs 150 crore for his upcoming films Spirit and Animal Park. Vanga has built a loyal audience base that makes strong box-office returns.
Atlee Kumar
Atlee Kumar has firmly established himself as a director who understands mass appeal. After delivering hits like Jawan, Atlee is said to be charging around Rs 100 crore for his next project, AA22 x A6. His ability to blend emotion, action, and star power has made him a favourite among producers aiming for pan-India success.
Prashanth Neel
Prashanth Neel, the director behind the KGF franchise and Salaar, also commands a fee of around Rs 100 crore. With Dragon and Salaar 2 in the pipeline, Neel’s brand of stylised action and larger-than-life heroes continues to attract massive audiences, especially in the South and Hindi belts.
Rajkumar Hirani
Rajkumar Hirani remains one of the most respected filmmakers in Indian cinema. Known for films that combine strong social messages with box-office appeal, Hirani reportedly charges Rs 80 crore. His upcoming project, a biopic on Dadasaheb Phalke, is already generating interest due to his reputation for thoughtful storytelling.
Sukumar
Sukumar, who delivered the blockbuster Pushpa franchise, is said to be charging around Rs 75 crore. With Pushpa 3 and RC 17 lined up, Sukumar’s rooted storytelling and strong character arcs continue to resonate with audiences across regions.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s films are known for their visual richness and emotional depth. The director reportedly commands a fee of Rs 65 crore for his upcoming film Love and War. Bhansali’s unique cinematic style ensures that his projects remain prestigious and highly anticipated.
Lokesh Kanagaraj
Lokesh Kanagaraj has gained immense popularity for creating interconnected cinematic worlds. Charging around Rs 60 crore, he has Kaithi 2, Vikram 2, and Irumbu Kai Mayavi in the pipeline, keeping fans excited about the future of his universe.
Shankar and Siddharth Anand
Veteran director Shankar reportedly charges Rs 50 crore for Indian 3, while Siddharth Anand, known for action-packed blockbusters, commands around Rs 45 crore. Anand’s upcoming projects include King, Tiger vs Pathaan, and Rambo, all expected to be major theatrical events.