The ambitious sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD, directed by Nag Ashwin, featured one of the most star-studded casts in Indian cinema. The film brought together major names such as Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika
Padukone, and Kamal Haasan. But who among them was the highest-paid actor in the film?
Speaking to Indiaglitz, Yugi Sethu said that Kamal was paid Rs 150 crore for his role in the sci-fi epic. “Kamal sir’s stature is such. He is getting paid Rs 150 crore for 20 days of the call sheet for Kalki 2898 AD. I told him on his birthday that he is the highest-paid actor in India and is getting $1 million per day,” Yugi said.
When pointed out that Kamal had shot for only 10 days, Yugi said, “Sorry, I correct myself then, it’s $2 million per day.” Thus, despite having a relatively brief appearance, Kamal Haasan emerged as the highest-paid actor in the film.
In the film, Kamal Haasan played Supreme Yaskin, a powerful and mysterious god-king who rules over the dystopian world known as “the Complex.” Although his screen time in the first instalment was limited, the character is central to the film’s larger narrative arc and is expected to have a much larger presence in the sequel.
Kamal Haasan’s high remuneration also reflects his strong comeback in recent years. After the blockbuster success of Vikram (2022), his market value in the industry reportedly surged, making him one of the most sought-after actors for large-scale projects.
While Kamal Haasan reportedly topped the pay scale, the film’s cast included some of the biggest stars in Indian cinema. Prabhas led the film as Bhairava, a bounty hunter navigating a futuristic dystopian world, while Amitabh Bachchan played the immortal warrior Ashwatthama. Deepika Padukone portrayed Sumathi, a key character connected to the prophecy driving the film’s narrative.
The film ends with several major revelations, including Bhairava’s mysterious past and Yaskin’s growing power, setting up an intense conflict for the sequel. The sequel is expected to delve deeper into the mythology and character arcs introduced in the first film. One of the key plot threads will revolve around the fate of Sumathi and the prophecy surrounding the birth of Kalki.
