Dhanush's D55 Ignites Kollywood Salary Storm with Astronomical Figures
The upcoming Tamil film D55, starring and produced by Dhanush, has become a major talking point in the Kollywood industry, not just for its impressive cast but due to the staggering salary figures being reported. The project, directed by Rajkumar Periyasamy, is already generating significant buzz and controversy even before production begins.
Star-Studded Cast and Their Reported Remuneration
According to industry reports, the film features a powerhouse lineup including Dhanush, Mammootty, Sai Pallavi, and Sreeleela. The salary details have created a sensation across social media and trade circles.
- Dhanush leads with a reported fee of Rs 45 crore for his dual role as actor and producer, reflecting his immense market value and popularity.
- Sai Pallavi is said to be charging Rs 12 crore, making her the highest-paid female lead in the project.
- Sreeleela has reportedly quoted Rs 3 crore, despite industry whispers suggesting her role might be relatively brief compared to other cast members.
Director and Technical Team Fees Add to Budget
The financial scale of D55 extends beyond the actors. Director Rajkumar Periyasamy, fresh from the success of Amaran, has reportedly been signed for Rs 15 crore. Industry sources indicate his fee saw a substantial increase from his previous project, where he earned Rs 6 crore initially plus an additional Rs 4 crore post-success.
Music composer Sai Abhyankkar is also said to be charging Rs 3 crore. These figures collectively point to a massive budget allocation for star salaries and top-tier technicians, positioning D55 as one of the most expensive Tamil films in development.
Mammootty's Ethical Stand on Salary
Perhaps the most intriguing development involves veteran actor Mammootty. Reports suggest Dhanush was prepared to pay him up to Rs 35 crore, but Mammootty reportedly declined this hefty amount, expressing discomfort with such a large fee.
After respectful discussions with producers, his final remuneration was settled at Rs 24 crore. This decision has earned Mammootty widespread praise for his principled stance, while simultaneously highlighting the film's grand scale through these reported negotiations.
Industry Impact and Future Expectations
The salary revelations have sparked intense debate within film trade circles and among fans, who are closely monitoring every development related to the film's budget and payments. D55 is already being described as a landmark project in Tamil cinema, potentially setting new benchmarks for production costs and star compensation.
As anticipation builds, the film continues to draw attention not just for its artistic potential but for the financial dynamics shaping its creation. The combination of high-profile talent, controversial salary figures, and ethical considerations makes D55 a fascinating case study in contemporary Kollywood economics.
