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These 7 Stars Worked In Films For Free — One Even Became A Top Heroine
Many top stars in the Indian film industry typically command fees in the crores, yet there have been occasions when some have taken on roles without accepting any payment. This list includes prominent names such as Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Mammootty, who have, at different points in their careers, worked in films purely out of passion or respect.
Shah Rukh Khan played a pivotal role in Kamal Haasan's film Hey Ram (2000), without accepting any remuneration. He was reportedly keen to collaborate with Kamal Haasan and agreed to act in the film despite its modest budget.
When Shahid Kapoor heard the script of Vishal Bhardwaj's Haider (2014), he was so moved that he agreed to act in the film without taking a fee. Shraddha Kapoor also appeared in the film, which received widespread critical acclaim.
Deepika Padukone, now considered one of the leading actresses in the industry, made her Bollywood debut in Om Shanti Om (2007) alongside Shah Rukh Khan. It is reported that she did not charge any fee for the film, recognising the opportunity to star opposite one of Bollywood's biggest icons in her very first film.
In Manto (2018), a biographical film on the life of legendary Urdu writer Saadat Hasan Manto, Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivered a powerful performance. Reports suggest he agreed to act for a symbolic fee of just one rupee, out of deep respect for the author and the film's subject matter.
Thalapathy Vijay, now one of the highest-paid actors in India, began his career with the film Vetri in 1984, starring alongside Vijayakanth. At the time, Vijay did not take any payment. Today, he reportedly charges as much as Rs 200 crore per film.
Director Ranjit, in an interview with Matribhoomi Star & Style, shared a memorable experience working with Mammootty, revealing that the veteran actor worked in Paleri Manikyam (2009) entirely free of charge. His contribution was a testament to his dedication to meaningful cinema.
