🎬 “Just 3 Hits Could’ve Fed Generations” — R. Madhavan Slams Bollywood’s No-Royalty Model
- MediaFx
- Sep 25
- 2 min read
TL;DR: R. Madhavan has strongly criticised how Bollywood actors don’t get royalties (residuals). He says if the system existed like in Hollywood, just three of his blockbuster films would’ve secured his family for generations. He argues this broken model forces actors to play safe instead of experimenting.
Actor Speaks Out: No Residuals = No Security
R. Madhavan recently opened up about the lack of residual payments in Indian cinema. In Hollywood, actors continue to earn when their films or shows are re-aired, streamed or sold again. But in India, actors are paid only once, even if the film keeps earning for years.
He pointed out that if royalties were given, just three of his films — 3 Idiots, Rang De Basanti and Tanu Weds Manu — would’ve been enough to “feed generations” of his family.
The System Pushes Actors to Play Safe
Because actors can’t rely on income from older work:
They often stick to “formula films” instead of experimenting with fresh stories.
They negotiate heavily for upfront pay, because there’s no guarantee of future earnings.
Younger and mid-level actors feel insecure the most, since one flop can endanger their entire career.
Madhavan noted that stars like Shah Rukh Khan became producers early in their career to gain more control over profits, something regular actors don’t usually have.
Why This Matters
This highlights a big structural gap in the Indian film industry. The system is unfair because films and shows continue to generate money for producers and platforms, but the actors who helped make them successful don’t see a share of it.
If India introduced royalty payments, actors would have financial stability, and they’d be free to take more artistic risks.
MediaFx Take
From a people’s perspective, this is about fairness and dignity. Artists give their energy, creativity and years of their life to a project. They deserve a share in its long-term success, not just a one-time paycheck. A fair royalty system could make the industry more equal and sustainable for everyone.
