India’s Top 10 Highest Tax-Paying Celebrities in 2025

Paying taxes is a crucial responsibility, and India’s top celebrities lead by example with their massive contributions to the national Treasury. Every year, Bollywood superstars, cricketers, and sports legends pay hefty sums in taxes, reflecting their substantial earnings from films, endorsements, and other ventures.

For the financial year 2024-25, legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan has emerged as the highest tax-paying celebrity, dethroning last year’s leader, Shah Rukh Khan. With an astounding tax payment of ₹120 crore, Big B has set a new benchmark.

1. Amitabh Bachchan – ₹120 Crore

Amitabh Bachchan has claimed the No. 1 spot on this year’s list by paying a staggering ₹120 crore in taxes. The 82-year-old megastar earned an estimated ₹350 crore in FY 2024-25 from various sources, including films, brand endorsements, and hosting Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC). His tax contribution increased by 69% from the previous year, when he paid ₹71 crore. His final advance tax installment of ₹52.5 crore was paid on March 15, 2025, officially making him the highest taxpayer in the country.

2. Shah Rukh Khan – ₹92 Crore

Bollywood’s King Khan may have lost the top spot this year, but he remains a financial powerhouse. In FY 2023-24, SRK paid ₹92 crore in taxes, thanks to the massive box office success of his films Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki. His movies dominated worldwide earnings, with Pathaan grossing ₹1000 crore and Jawan crossing ₹1150 crore, making it one of the highest-grossing films of all time. SRK’s Bollywood comeback turned into a record-breaking success, securing his place among India’s highest-paid celebrities.

3. Thalapathy Vijay – ₹80 Crore

Tamil superstar Thalapathy Vijay continues to dominate the list with a tax payment of ₹80 crore. His earnings come from his blockbuster Tamil films, lucrative endorsement deals, and a massive fan base in South India. Apart from acting, Vijay has also entered politics by launching his party, Thamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), with plans to contest in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

4. Salman Khan – ₹75 Crore

Bollywood’s beloved Bhai, Salman Khan, retains his stronghold among India’s top taxpayers, paying ₹75 crore in taxes for FY 2023-24. His wealth comes from various sources, including film projects such as Tiger 3 and upcoming releases, brand endorsements with multiple high-profile brands, and his role as the host of Bigg Boss. Despite no major film releases in 2024, Salman’s brand value and television presence continue to fuel his earnings.

5. Virat Kohli – ₹66 Crore

Cricketing icon Virat Kohli is the highest tax-paying sportsperson in India. He paid ₹66 crore in taxes in FY 2023-24, thanks to his match fees, IPL salary, brand endorsements, and personal investments. Kohli remains one of India’s most marketable athletes, endorsing brands like Puma, Audi, and MRF. His immense fan following and successful cricketing career make him one of the wealthiest athletes in the country.

6. Ajay Devgn – ₹42 Crore

Bollywood veteran Ajay Devgn maintains his strong presence on this list, paying ₹42 crore in taxes. His earnings come from successful films like Drishyam 2, Bholaa, and Maidaan, as well as brand endorsements and film production ventures. Ajay’s smart financial planning and long-term investments ensure his steady income and influence in Bollywood.

7. MS Dhoni – ₹38 Crore

Former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni remains a top tax-paying celebrity despite retiring from international cricket. In FY 2023-24, he paid ₹38 crore in taxes, driven by IPL earnings from Chennai Super Kings, business ventures such as sports academies and organic farming, and brand endorsements with companies like RedBus, Dream11, and Gulf Oil. Dhoni’s business acumen and investments continue to make him one of India’s wealthiest athletes.

8. Ranbir Kapoor – ₹36 Crore

Bollywood heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor paid ₹36 crore in taxes in FY 2023-24. His film earnings skyrocketed after the success of Animal and Brahmāstra, both of which were box office hits. Ranbir’s growing brand endorsements and steady film career keep him among Bollywood’s top earners.

9. Sachin Tendulkar – ₹28 Crore

Despite retiring from cricket, Sachin Tendulkar remains one of the highest-paid sports icons in India. He paid ₹28 crore in taxes for FY 2023-24. His income comes from endorsements with brands like BMW, Unacademy, and Paytm, as well as business investments in restaurants and sports academies. He also has ownership in the ISL football team Kerala Blasters, ensuring a steady stream of revenue even years after retirement.

10. Hrithik Roshan – ₹28 Crore

Bollywood’s Greek God, Hrithik Roshan, shares the No. 10 spot with Sachin Tendulkar, paying ₹28 crore in taxes. His earnings are driven by high-budget films like Fighter and War 2, along with endorsements for luxury brands and his personal investments. Hrithik’s fitness brand, HRX, continues to be one of India’s most successful celebrity-owned businesses, contributing significantly to his wealth.

These celebrities not only entertain millions but also contribute significantly to the economy through their tax payments, setting an example for responsible financial conduct.