As the adrenaline-pumping reality show Khatron Ke Khiladi 15 gears up for its premiere, the spotlight has shifted from the daring stunts to the staggering paychecks of its celebrity contestants. With a star-studded lineup ready to fly to Cape Town, South Africa, industry reports suggest a massive bidding war for the top spot on the payroll.
Leading the race for the title of the “highest-paid contestant” are television heavyweights Rubina Dilaik and Gaurav Khanna, both of whom have seen their market value skyrocket following successful stints on Bigg Boss.
The Remuneration Race: Rubina vs. Gaurav
Rubina Dilaik, a veteran of the franchise and the winner of Bigg Boss 14, has a history of high earnings. Reports indicate she previously charged between ₹10 to ₹15 lakh per episode for Khatron Ke Khiladi 12. Given her massive fan following, speculations suggest her fee for Season 15 could break her previous records. On the other hand, Gaurav Khanna, fresh off his victory in Bigg Boss 19, is reportedly commanding a massive premium. Industry buzz suggests that after charging a whopping ₹17.5 lakh per week in the Bigg Boss house, his remuneration for the stunt-based show has seen a significant hike, potentially making him the most expensive contestant this year.
A Star-Studded Lineup in Cape Town
The confirmed list of participants for the upcoming season is a mix of reality TV icons and popular drama stars. Joining Rubina and Gaurav are Jasmin Bhasin, Karan Wahi, Rithvik Dhanjani, Avika Gor, Harsh Gujral, Orry, and Vishal Aditya Singh. With such a high-profile cast, the production cost for the season is expected to be among the highest in the show’s history. Host Rohit Shetty is reportedly set to begin filming in May 2026, with the rugged landscapes of South Africa once again serving as the backdrop for the grueling challenges.
Premiere Expectations and Fan Buzz
While Colors TV is yet to officially announce the release date, the show is expected to hit television screens in June or July 2026. The anticipation is particularly high due to the mix of “old favorites” like Rubina and Rithvik returning to the franchise alongside new champions like Gaurav Khanna. As the contestants prepare for their journey, fans are eagerly waiting to see if the high investment in these stars translates into the most thrilling season of Khatron Ke Khiladi yet.