When it comes to the highest-paid television personalities in India, names like Kapil Sharma, Rupali Ganguly, and even the legendary Amitabh Bachchan often come to mind. However, the true king of Indian television earnings, reportedly raking in a staggering ₹60 crore per month, is none other than Bollywood superstar Salman Khan.
While Kapil Sharma and Amitabh Bachchan command impressive fees for their respective shows, it’s Salman Khan’s association with the immensely popular reality show Bigg Boss that places him in an unparalleled league of his own. Sources close to the production indicate that for hosting Bigg Boss 18, which premiered in October 2024, Salman Khan has reportedly hiked his fees to this astronomical figure, securing his position as the highest-earning TV star in the country.
His immense fan following across India and abroad, coupled with his unmatched screen presence, makes him an indispensable asset for the show. Despite only appearing in a limited number of episodes per week, often just two, his presence is credited with driving the show’s skyrocketing ratings and consistent success for over a decade.
It’s widely believed that Salman’s fees for Bigg Boss are comparable to what he earns for his film projects, which can be upwards of ₹150 crore per film. Given that hosting Bigg Boss takes up a significant portion of his year, a remuneration of ₹60 crore per month for a season that typically runs for 15 weeks translates to an astounding total. This positions him far above other prominent TV personalities, including Kapil Sharma, who reportedly earned ₹60 crore for the entire first season of The Great Indian Kapil Show, and Rupali Ganguly, who charges around ₹3 lakh per episode for her hit show Anupamaa.
Salman Khan’s pivotal role in Bigg Boss‘s enduring popularity is undeniable. The show’s ratings have reportedly dipped on occasions when he has been absent due to health issues or film commitments, solidifying his status as the backbone of the franchise. This immense influence on viewership is a key reason why the makers are consistently willing to meet his substantial financial demands, ensuring his continued association with the show.
His journey as a TV host began 15 years ago, and since then, he has become synonymous with the Bigg Boss house, proving that his star power extends far beyond the silver screen, making him the undisputed highest-earning TV star in India.