The 1995 cinematic masterpiece, 'Karan Arjun,' directed by Rakesh Roshan, stands as an indelible part of Bollywood history. This action-drama, a compelling tale of reincarnation and brotherhood, captivated audiences nationwide, solidifying its place as a beloved classic. The unprecedented pairing of superstars Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan on screen was a major draw, leading the film to become a colossal box office success. Even nearly three decades later, 'Karan Arjun' is celebrated for its gripping narrative, memorable songs, and powerful performances. However, behind the grandeur and box office triumph, lies an interesting detail about the remuneration of its stellar cast, while it turns out that among the celebrated ensemble, Salman Khan emerged as the highest-paid actor for his role in the film.
The Remuneration of Lead Stars: Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan
The dynamic duo of Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan breathed life into their respective characters, Arjun and Karan. Their electrifying chemistry was arguably one of the film's strongest assets, propelling it to unprecedented heights of popularity. When it came to their earnings, Shah Rukh Khan, essaying the role of Arjun, was reportedly paid around ₹80 lakh for his performance. Salman Khan, portraying Karan, commanded the highest fee among the entire cast. He received an astounding ₹1 crore 10 lakh for his role, a significant sum for that era, underscoring his immense star power and box office appeal at the time. This financial detail further highlights the stature of these actors in the mid-90s Indian film industry.
Contributions and Fees of Supporting Cast
The success of 'Karan Arjun' wasn't solely due to its lead actors; the supporting cast played equally crucial roles in its enduring appeal. Veteran actress Raakhee Gulzar delivered a powerful and emotional performance as Durga Singh, the mother of Karan and Arjun, for which she was paid ₹80,000, while her portrayal resonated deeply with audiences, adding significant emotional depth to the narrative. Mamta Kulkarni, who starred opposite Salman Khan, received ₹8 lakh for her role. Kajol, paired opposite Shah Rukh Khan, earned ₹17 lakh, with their on-screen romance being a highlight for many viewers. These actors, through their dedicated performances, helped weave the intricate tapestry of the film's story.
Villain and Comedic Talent's Earnings
The film's antagonist, Thakur Durjan Singh, was brought to life by the legendary Amrish Puri, who delivered a menacing performance as only he could, while for his formidable villainous act, Amrish Puri was compensated with ₹12 lakh, a substantial amount for a character actor at the time. Adding a dose of much-needed humor, comedian Johnny Lever, known for his impeccable timing, was paid ₹45,000 for his comedic contribution. Firoz Khan, who played Nahar Singh, received ₹80,000. Each of these artists, in their unique capacities, contributed Importantly to making 'Karan Arjun' the cult classic it's today, a film that continues to be a benchmark in stories of reincarnation in Indian cinema.
