The South Indian film industry has seen a drastic change in recent years with actresses demanding salaries comparable to top actors. A number of actresses in 2025 have crossed the ₹10 crore mark becoming highest paid earners. Their demand in the market and fan base have opened the door to these huge paychecks. Let’s look at the six highest paid South Indian actresses of this year.

1. Sai Pallavi – ₹20 Crores
Sai Pallavi’s rise has been remarkable. She has now become the highest paid South Indian actress of 2025 right from charging ₹5 crores per film. Her exceptional performances in Amaran and Thandel brought her massive acclaim. Additionally she has stepped into Bollywood with her role as Sita in Ramayana by earning a record breaking ₹20 crores for the film. Her natural acting style have made her a fan favorite and a powerful presence in the industry.

2. Nayanthara – ₹15 Crores
Nayanthara at 40 continues to dominate the industry. Her impressive lineup of films includes Test, Toxic, Dear Student, Mannan Gatti, Rakayi and Mookuthi Amman 2. Her highest paycheck comes from Mookuthi Amman 2 directed by Sundar C where she is earning ₹15 crores. Her strong presence in both commercial and experimental cinema has enhanced her position as a top earner.

3. Rashmika Mandanna – ₹13 Crores
Rashmika Mandanna’s career soared post the success of Pushpa 2 and Chaava which grossed over ₹500 crores at the box office. She has also gained recognition in Bollywood along with her South Indian projects. She is starring alongside Salman Khan in Sikandar. Her massive fan following has pushed her earnings to ₹13 crores per film.

4. Trisha – ₹12 Crores
After ruling as the highest-paid actress in 2024, Trisha now holds the fourth spot. Her notable projects include Good Bad Ugly with Ajith, Thug Life with Mani Ratnam, Vishwambhara with Chiranjeevi and Surya 45 with RJ Balaji. Trisha was paid ₹12 crores for Vishwambhara proving her popularity in the industry.

5. Samantha – ₹10 Crores
Samantha continues to be a beloved star despite having fewer Telugu releases. She is now exploring Bollywood and is also producing a Telugu movie titled Bangaram. Her role in the global series Citadel earned her ₹10 crores. Samantha remains one of the highest paid actresses in South Indian cinema with her impressive acting skills and loyal fan base,

6. Pooja Hegde – ₹7 Crores
Pooja Hegde has made a strong mark in Tamil cinema although her presence in Telugu films has reduced. She is currently working on major projects like Jananayakan with Vijay, Retro with Suriya and Kanchana 4 with Raghava Lawrence. Pooja reportedly earns ₹7 crores per film by maintaining her position as one of the most sought after actresses.

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