Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn is currently making headlines for his much-discussed entry into television as a host. Rather than anchoring a conventional reality show akin to those led by Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, or Amitabh Bachchan, he has taken over the hosting duties for a fresh season of the popular true-crime series Crime Petrol. This new venture comes with a significant financial reward, shedding light on the compensation he is drawing for his small-screen debut.
The Episode Deal and TRP Dynamics
Reports indicate that Ajay Devgn has initially signed on for 15 episodes of Crime Petrol. Following the completion of these episodes, the showrunners will evaluate whether to extend the collaboration further. Ultimately, the entire arrangement hinges heavily on television rating points and audience reception. If viewers warmly accept Devgn's anchoring style, the producers are expected to retain him by offering a hefty remuneration for subsequent episodes.
Massive Payout, Yet Not the Top Spot
The financial figures associated with Devgn's entry into the series are substantial. He is set to take home up to Rs 90 crore for his stint on the show. Despite this staggering amount, he still falls short of claiming the crown for the highest-paid television host in the country. Another major Bollywood star comfortably outpaces him, commanding a staggering Rs 250 crore to hold the title of television's costliest host.
History of Crime Petrol and Previous Hosts
The collaboration was officially announced by the actor in August, with the telecast kicking off on August 31. Having first premiered in 2003, Crime Petrol has witnessed several successful seasons over the years. Anup Soni remains the most celebrated and iconic host associated with the franchise. Over the past years, the show has also featured prominent personalities including Sakshi Tanwar, Sonali Kulkarni, Divyanka Tripathi, Ashutosh Rana, and Renuka Shahane.
Salman Khan and Amitabh Bachchan Lead the Pack
While Devgn's reported Rs 90 crore package is calculated based on his episode commitments, Salman Khan firmly retains the top position as television's highest-earning anchor. Khan's fees are estimated to reach up to Rs 250 crore, reflecting his 15-year tenure hosting various seasons of Bigg Boss. Having started at around Rs 2.5 crore per episode, his weekly remuneration eventually escalated to Rs 15 crore. He anchors the weekend special episodes, and across a four-month-long season, his total earnings culminate at the massive Rs 250 crore mark.
Adjusted Fees and Ranking of Other Hosts
According to media reports, Salman Khan scaled down his remuneration slightly for the 18th and 19th seasons of Bigg Boss. Even after this reduction, his earnings remained between Rs 130 crore and Rs 150 crore, firmly cementing his status as the nation's premier television host. Following him is Amitabh Bachchan, who reportedly charges up to Rs 100 crore for anchoring Kaun Banega Crorepati.
Where Other Notable Hosts Stand
With his Rs 90 crore payout, Ajay Devgn comfortably secures the third position among the country's most expensive television hosts. Further down the list, filmmaker Karan Johar takes home Rs 250 million (Rs 25 crore) for hosting Koffee with Karan, while action director Rohit Shetty charges between Rs 12 crore and Rs 14 crore for anchoring Khatron Ke Khiladi.
