November 17, 2024: Salman Khan’s staggering paycheck for Bigg Boss 18 has become the talk of the town, with reports suggesting that the superstar is earning a jaw-dropping ₹60 crore per month, potentially taking home ₹250 crore by the end of the season. While this highlights his iconic presence on the show, many are speculating if this colossal fee has led to a notable slash in payments for the contestants this season.
Significant Drop in Contestant Fees
Compared to previous seasons, the highest-paid contestant this year, Vivian Dsena, is reportedly earning ₹5 lakh per week—a sharp drop from Bigg Boss 17, where Ankita Lokhande was paid ₹12 lakh per week. Shilpa Shirodkar follows as the second-highest paid contestant at ₹2.50 lakh per week, while others, including Karanveer Mehra and Rajat Dalal, are earning ₹2 lakh and ₹1.50 lakh weekly, respectively.
Salman Khan’s Dominance
For years, Bigg Boss has been synonymous with Salman Khan, whose presence as the host continues to elevate the show’s appeal. His hefty paycheck underscores his contribution to the TRPs, but it also raises questions about budget allocation. Could Salman’s fee be affecting the payment structure for contestants? This theory gains weight considering the stark differences in contestant payouts over the last two seasons.
A Show of Contrasts
The disparity between Salman Khan’s remuneration and contestant fees has sparked debates among fans and media. While the show thrives on its host’s star power, the lower payments for contestants this season mark a surprising shift, especially since the show heavily relies on its participants for drama, entertainment, and audience engagement.
As Bigg Boss 18 unfolds, the focus remains on the ever-controversial mix of celebrity fees and the show’s broader financial dynamics. With Salman Khan firmly at the helm, Bigg Boss proves once again why it remains a dominant force in Indian television, even as the debate over its budgetary priorities continues.