After giving the horror-comedy genre a completely new twist, Kartik Aaryan has teamed up with the enterprising Karan Johar to play a ichchadhari naag.
Breaking the glass ceiling has become a career norm for Kartik Aaryan. What makes Kartik tick?
2024-25 has escalated Kartik Aaryan’s fortunes radically. It was by chance that this writer got to know about Kartik Aaryan’s radically revised remuneration. A high-profile filmmaker let out the fiscal fact unknowingly, “We are in the final stages of negotiating with Kartik. He is now charging 50 crores after Bhool Bhulaiya 2. And he deserves it. He is as indispensable to the Franchise as Salman Khan for Tiger.”
Significantly, only one other actor from Kartik’s generation charges in the same range: Ranbir Kapoor, who apparently gets 55-60 crores.
Comments trade analyst Atul Mohan, “If a producer or studio believes Kartik Aaryan at ₹50 crores is a viable choice for their project, they are free to proceed. No one enters a venture aiming for a loss. However, a lead actor commanding ₹50 crores means the project’s landing cost will likely exceed ₹150 crores. This requires the film to achieve a box office collection of at least ₹250–300 crores to be deemed a hit or semi-hit, which in turn impacts satellite and digital pricing. Ultimately, the pressure will always be on the film’s performance at the box office.”
Speaking on Kartik’s emphatically enhanced payscale, trade guru Taran Adarsh says, “It’s difficult to comment on the exact fee Kartik Aaryan charges post the massive success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Such financial agreements between actors and producers are typically kept confidential. That said, it’s an age-old trend in the industry for actors to hike their remuneration following a blockbuster. Kartik, having delivered impressive box-office numbers, is no exception. The film industry thrives on facts, figures, and the performance of the latest release. Kartik proved his mettle by standing tall against formidable competition like Singham Again and emerging victorious.”
Taran shoots down any suggestion of Kartik over-charging. “If an actor quotes a fee and a producer agrees to pay it, there’s no reason for anyone to object. After all, it’s a matter of mutual agreement. Kartik Aaryan is currently enjoying a stellar phase in his career. The year 2024 has been a game-changer for him. While Chandu Champion showcased his talent as an actor of repute, even though it didn’t perform at the box office, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 catapulted him into the hearts of the masses. Kartik is not just an actor or a star anymore; he has evolved into a significant force in the industry. His journey to the top is a testament to his hard work and undeniable appeal.”
Adds producer and trade analyst Girish Johar, “I believe team Kartik must have done some homework and planned this for a longer and sustainable period. Further, knowing Kartik, I feel he is a very smart and intelligent and a star on the rise. He would plan his outings very meticulously for maximum benefit for all his parties concerned.”
