Top 10 Highest Paid Tollywood or Telugu Actors in 2025

Tollywood’s paychecks are getting bigger, and some names are leading the way in 2025. It’s not just about star power anymore, it’s also about box office pull, brand value, and audience reach. Here’s a look at the topTelugu actors who are earning the most in 2025!

Tollywood has always been a powerhouse of talent, style, and box office magic. And in 2025, the stakes and paychecks are higher than ever. Some of the biggest Telugu actors are now commanding massive fees that reflect their star power, fan base, and the kind of buzz they bring to the screen.

In this list, you’ll find the top Tollywood actors who are currently the highest-paid in the industry. From action-packed entertainers to emotional blockbusters, these stars are getting big numbers not just for their performances but also for their influence. Whether you're a fan or just curious about the business side of cinema, this list gives a clear picture of who’s leading the pack when it comes to earnings in the Telugu film industry.  

Highest Paid Tollywood Actors in 2025

As mentioned above, Tollywood’s leading actors aren’t just ruling the box office, but they’re also taking home massive paychecks. Here’s a look at the highest paid Telugu actors in 2025 and what makes them worth every rupee.

1. Allu Arjun

Allu Arjun is one of the most stylish and loved actors in Telugu cinema. He started his film journey in 2003 with Gangotri, but it was Arya in 2004 that really changed the game for him. His energetic performance and charm made him an instant favorite among younger audiences.

Over the years, Allu Arjun has delivered several big hits. Films like Bunny, Desamuduru, Race Gurram, Sarrainodu, and Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo helped him build a solid fan base. But it was Pushpa: The Rise in 2021 that turned him into a national icon. His portrayal of Pushpa Raj was raw, intense, and unforgettable. It broke language barriers and made him popular across India.

Known for his dance moves, fashion sense, and strong screen presence, Allu Arjun continues to grow in popularity. His estimated net worth is over ₹350 crore. With Pushpa 2 on the way, fans are excited to see what he brings next.

Approx Charges Per Film / Remuneration: 200cr to 300cr

2. Prabhas

Prabhas, born as Uppalapati Venkata Suryanarayana Prabhas Raju, is one of the biggest stars in Telugu cinema today. He began his acting career in 2002, but his breakthrough came in 2005 with Chatrapathi, directed by S.S. Rajamouli. The film’s success set the stage for a series of impactful performances that followed over the years.

He became a household name across India with Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) and Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017). These two films not only broke box office records but also gave Prabhas national and international fame. He went on to star in big projects like Saaho, Radhe Shyam, and Adipurush, proving his appeal beyond regional cinema.

Known for his grounded personality and dedication to roles, Prabhas has built a loyal fan base. His estimated net worth is over ₹250 crore. From action to mythological dramas, Prabhas continues to explore diverse roles and remains a strong force in Indian cinema.

Approx Charges Per Film / Remuneration: 150cr to 200cr

3. Jr NTR

Jr NTR, also known as Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., is one of the most versatile actors in Telugu cinema. He stepped into films at a young age, but his real breakthrough came in 2001 with Student No.1, directed by S.S. Rajamouli. The film made him a household name and kicked off a successful career in Tollywood.

Over the years, Jr NTR has built a strong reputation with films like Simhadri, Yamadonga, Temper, Janatha Garage, Aravinda Sametha, and RRR. His role as Komaram Bheem in RRR earned global praise and introduced him to a wider audience beyond India. He’s known for delivering emotional depth, action, and powerful dialogue with ease.

Off-screen, he keeps a low profile but is respected for his grounded nature and discipline. His estimated net worth is around ₹450 crore. With new projects lined up, Jr NTR continues to be one of the leading faces of Telugu cinema.

Approx Charges Per Film / Remuneration: 100cr 

4. Ram Charan

Ram Charan is one of the biggest names in Telugu cinema today. He made his film debut in 2007 with Chirutha, but it was Magadheera (2009) that changed everything. Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, the film became a massive hit and turned Ram Charan into a star overnight.

Since then, he’s delivered several popular films like Racha, Naayak, Dhruva, and Rangasthalam, where he received praise for playing a hearing-impaired man with raw intensity. His recent role in RRR as Alluri Sitarama Raju brought him international recognition. The film’s global success introduced him to a wider audience and cemented his position as a pan-India actor.

Ram Charan is known for his strong screen presence and his ability to pick varied roles. His estimated net worth is around ₹1,300 crore, making him one of the highest-paid actors in the industry. Apart from acting, he also co-owns the production house Konidela Production Company and has other business interests.

Approx Charges Per Film / Remuneration: 100cr to 130cr

5. Mahesh Babu

Mahesh Babu is one of the most bankable and beloved stars in Telugu cinema. He started acting as a child artist but made his mark as a lead actor with the film Rajakumarudu in 1999. His big breakthrough, though, came with Okkadu in 2003, which became a huge hit and firmly placed him in the spotlight.

Over the years, Mahesh has delivered several successful films like Pokiri, Dookudu, Srimanthudu, Bharat Ane Nenu, and Maharshi. These movies not only did well at the box office but also showed his range; from action-packed roles to thoughtful characters with a social message. Fans admire him for his calm screen presence and effortless style.

Apart from his acting career, Mahesh is also a producer and a philanthropist. His estimated net worth is over ₹300 crore. With a strong fan base and a clean public image, he remains a top choice for brands and filmmakers alike.

Approx Charges Per Film / Remuneration: 80cr to 100cr

6. Pawan Kalyan

Pawan Kalyan is more than just a star—he’s a cultural icon in Telugu cinema. He made his acting debut with Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi in 1996, but it was Tholi Prema in 1998 that truly launched his career. The film was a blockbuster and won a National Film Award, earning him instant recognition.

He followed it up with hits like Gabbar Singh, Kushi, Attarintiki Daredi, and Jalsa. These films cemented his place as one of Tollywood’s most reliable and loved heroes. Known for his intense screen presence and action-packed roles, Pawan has built a loyal fan base over the years. Aside from films, he’s also active in politics as the founder of the Jana Sena Party.

As of 2025, his estimated net worth is around ₹115 crore. With influence in both cinema and public life, Pawan Kalyan continues to be a strong force on and off screen.

Approx Charges Per Film / Remuneration: 60cr to 100cr

7. Vijay Deverakonda

Vijay Deverakonda has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in Telugu cinema. His breakout role came in 2017 with Arjun Reddy, a bold, intense film that turned him into an overnight sensation. Audiences connected with his raw energy and fearless acting, and since then, there’s been no looking back.

He followed it up with hits like Geetha Govindam, Dear Comrade, and Taxiwaala, each showcasing his range–from charming romantic lead to serious performer. Vijay also ventured into Bollywood with Liger, aiming to reach a wider audience. Alongside acting, he launched his own fashion label, Rowdy, which reflects his off-screen personality as being rebellious and real.

As of 2025, Vijay Deverakonda’s estimated net worth is around ₹35 crore. His appeal lies in his relatability and bold choices, both on and off screen. Whether it's through films or brand collaborations, Vijay continues to be a favorite among the younger crowd and an ideal pick for fresh, fearless storytelling.

Approx Charges Per Film / Remuneration: 20cr to 45cr

8. Chiranjeevi

Chiranjeevi isn’t just a superstar, he’s a legacy in Telugu cinema. His breakthrough came in 1983 with the film Khaidi, which not only made him a household name but also changed the course of his career. Known for his dance moves, action scenes, and on-screen charm, Chiranjeevi quickly rose to become one of the most bankable stars in India.

Over the decades, he’s delivered several blockbusters like Indra, Tagore, Shankar Dada MBBS, and Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy. After a brief pause for his political journey, he returned to films with Khaidi No. 150, which was a major hit. His ability to connect with audiences across generations keeps his stardom intact even today.

As of 2025, Chiranjeevi’s estimated net worth is over ₹165 crore. He’s not just known for his roles but also for his discipline, philanthropy, and leadership in the industry. For many fans and aspiring actors, he remains an icon of style, success, and longevity.

Approx Charges Per Film / Remuneration: 40cr to 70cr

9. Nandamuri Balakrishna

Nandamuri Balakrishna, often called Balayya by his fans, is a well-known figure in Telugu cinema with a career spanning over four decades. Son of the legendary N. T. Rama Rao, Balakrishna stepped into films as a child artist and later found his breakthrough in 1982 with Sahasame Jeevitham. That film set the stage for a long journey of powerful roles and mass appeal.

He has starred in over 100 films, including hits like Samarasimha Reddy, Narasimha Naidu, Legend, and Akhanda. Known for his commanding screen presence and punchy dialogues, Balakrishna has carved a unique place for himself among Telugu film lovers. He also hosts the popular talk show Unstoppable with NBK, which has expanded his connection with the younger audience.

As of 2025, his estimated net worth is over ₹120 crore. Beyond cinema, Balakrishna is active in politics and continues to be a strong presence in both arenas. His consistency and fan base make him a lasting icon in Tollywood.

Approx Charges Per Film / Remuneration: 35cr to 40cr

10. Ghanta Naveen Babu aka Nani

Ghanta Naveen Babu, better known as Nani, is one of the most relatable and loved actors in Telugu cinema. Before entering films, he worked as an assistant director and RJ. His big break came in 2008 with the film Ashta Chamma, which showcased his natural acting and boy-next-door charm. It set him on a path of success with both critical and commercial acclaim.

Nani is known for choosing fresh and engaging scripts. Some of his most popular films include Eega, Bhale Bhale Magadivoy, Jersey, Shyam Singha Roy, and Dasara. His performances often feel effortless, making him a favorite among audiences who enjoy grounded and emotional storytelling. He’s earned a strong reputation for consistently delivering hits without relying on over-the-top formulas.

As of 2025, Nani’s estimated net worth is around ₹50-70 crore. He’s also ventured into film production with his banner, Wall Poster Cinema. With his consistent performances and solid fan base, Nani continues to be a dependable name in Telugu films.

Approx Charges Per Film / Remuneration: 30cr to 35cr