Entertainment

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Bollywood’s beloved star Sushant Singh Rajput saw his earnings skyrocket from humble beginnings to commanding stardom—culminating in an unexpected but heartfelt reward for his cameo in PK.

Sushant began his film journey with Kai Po Che!, but his first known major payday came from Shuddh Desi Romance under Yash Raj Films, earning ₹30 lakh. According to his three-film YRF contract, he was scheduled to receive ₹60 lakh for his second film, followed by ₹1 crore for the third—if one succeeded.

Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!—his second YRF project—brought him ₹1 crore, far above the ₹60 lakh promised—an astonishing 233 % hike . His highest fee came with Chhichhore (2019), where he reportedly earned ₹8 crore, marking a 26.6-fold increase over his first ₹30 lakh salary .

Contrary to appearances, not all rewards are monetary. Sushant’s small role in PK earned him a gold coin—or a ₹21 ‘shagun’—and a set of treasured filmmaking books, gifted by director Rajkumar Hirani. The gesture spoke volumes about Hirani’s mentorship and Sushant’s passion for craft .

The progression in Sushant’s paycheck reflects the industry’s recognition of his evolving talent and box office appeal. His debut in Kai Po Che! led to YRF signing him, and as he delivered compelling performances, his remuneration followed suit—culminating in a career high with Chhichhore.

Sushant’s journey—spanning a leap from ₹30 lakh per film to ₹8 crore, plus a gold-lined token from PK—mirrors both Bollywood’s remix of commercial success and emotional bonds. Though he passed away in 2020, his story lives on: a testament to artistic growth and heartfelt gestures.