Rishab Shetty, the man behind the phenomenal success of the Kantara franchise, has now become one of the most sought-after stars in Indian cinema. Following the blockbuster run of Kantara and its sequel, reports suggest that Shetty is demanding a staggering ₹80 crore per film, placing him among the highest-paid actors in the industry. His rise from regional cinema to pan-Indian stardom has been nothing short of extraordinary, and this new fee reflects the massive demand for his talent.
Industry insiders reveal that Shetty has already signed two major projects for 2026. The first is Jai Hanuman, a mythological epic that is expected to be one of the biggest films of the year. The second is a project under Sithara Entertainments, a leading Telugu production house known for delivering large-scale hits. By focusing only on these two films this year, Shetty is ensuring that his brand value remains intact while giving audiences quality over quantity.
The ₹80 crore figure has sparked discussions across film circles, with many pointing out that Shetty’s demand is justified given the box office records set by Kantara. The franchise not only dominated Karnataka but also performed exceptionally well across India and overseas, proving that regional cinema can achieve pan-Indian success. His ability to blend folklore, spirituality, and mass appeal has made him a unique voice in contemporary Indian cinema.
As anticipation builds for Jai Hanuman and the Sithara Entertainments project, fans are eager to see how Shetty will reinvent himself after Kantara. With his rising stature, he is now positioned alongside the biggest names in Indian cinema. If these upcoming films live up to expectations, Rishab Shetty’s ₹80 crore demand may well set a new benchmark for actors transitioning from regional stardom to national superstardom.
