Talented and much-loved Bollywood actor R Madhavan recently shared an interesting fact that could be an eye-opener for the entire Hindi film industry. The actor explained how residuals—that is, recurring income from films and shows—do not exist in Bollywood. If this model existed in India, he says, just three blockbusters—3 Idiots, Rang De Basanti, and Tanu Weds Manu—would be enough to secure future generations.
The Big Difference Between Bollywood and Hollywood
Madhavan explained that once Hollywood stars have a hit film, they earn a lifetime from it. Whether it's TV broadcast, OTT streaming, or worldwide distribution, they receive residuals. This allows actors there to take big risks. However, this system is completely absent in Bollywood.
He said, "If I were a Hollywood actor, just three or four blockbuster movies would be enough for future generations. I wouldn't be afraid to take on risky projects."
Shah Rukh Khan's Becoming a Producer and the Bollywood System
Madhavan was asked if Shah Rukh Khan's early transition into a producer was a smart move. He replied that the same formula doesn't work for every actor. Stars in the "upper echelons" have high salaries that secure their future. But actors at the lower level don't have it so easy.
He said, “A-list stars can afford their lifestyle for a lifetime, but those who are below them are always afraid whether they will get money tomorrow or not.”
The Equation of Lifestyle and Insecurity
Madhavan raised another significant issue: Bollywood stars often spend beyond their means in order to maintain their lifestyle. Due to the absence of residuals, actors seek security in every project and avoid risk.
He said, "If I knew I'd still be earning money tomorrow, I would immediately jump into a risky project. But when there's no pension and I have to maintain my lifestyle, I have to think carefully."
Contracts and Faulty Payments
Madhavan also raised questions about Bollywood contracts. He said that many actors face delays in receiving their rightful money, and they don't have the time or resources to fight legally. He believes that if the judiciary and industry enforce residuals, every actor will pursue more passionate and experimental work.
Amrish Puri and the Hollywood Example
Madhavan also cited an interesting example – he noted that the late actor Amrish Puri still receives residuals for a Steven Spielberg film. Similarly, actor Adil Hussain once shared that he earns thousands of dollars every few months for a small guest role on Star Trek: Discovery. This is the system which is missing in Bollywood.
What's worth learning?
Madhavan's point is clear – if Bollywood adopted the residuals model, it would increase the creative freedom of not just individual actors but the entire industry. Actors wouldn't fear that a single flop project would ruin their career or finances.
According to him, if the system were like Hollywood's, they would still be "feeding generations" with their three blockbusters. But until the concept of residuals is introduced in India, stars will have to strike a balance between their financial security and risky choices.
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