Bollywood continues to buzz with dramatic headlines, and this time it’s a story involving two major names — Shraddha Kapoor and Ektaa Kapoor. The news that Shraddha has exited a high-concept thriller directed by Rahi Anil Barve, produced by Ektaa Kapoor, due to a payment dispute, has sent waves across the industry. What seemed like a promising project with a fresh combination of talent has now taken a backseat as financial disagreements took center stage.
According to PeepingMoon, Shraddha Kapoor opted out of the film after talks broke down regarding her remuneration. She had reportedly demanded a fee of ₹17 crore along with a percentage share in the film’s profits — a demand that Ektaa Kapoor and her production house believed was too steep. While some may view this as a classic case of an actor asking for “too much,” others argue it’s a sign of changing times in Bollywood, where top female stars are no longer willing to settle for less than they believe they’re worth.
Shraddha Kapoor, known for her bankable performances and a solid fan base, is one of the few actresses in the industry who can headline a project on her shoulders. Her previous films like Stree, Chhichhore, and Saaho have done well both commercially and critically. So, it comes as no surprise that she would expect her compensation to match her value. Moreover, the demand for a profit share indicates a deeper shift — actors today want to be more than just performers; they want to be stakeholders.
On the other hand, Ektaa Kapoor, a powerhouse producer known for reshaping television and experimenting with bold cinema, is equally shrewd with budgets. Her production decisions often reflect calculated risks, and this instance seems no different. With film budgets ballooning post-pandemic and audience tastes shifting unpredictably, producers are walking a tightrope between creative ambition and financial feasibility.
While both Shraddha and Ektaa have remained tight-lipped publicly, insiders hint that the parting was amicable, though professionally disappointing. The director Rahi Anil Barve, known for his cult horror-fantasy Tumbbad, was reportedly excited to collaborate with Shraddha on this concept-driven thriller. Now, with the lead actress out, the team is likely scrambling for a replacement who can bring the same level of star power and depth.
This incident also highlights a recurring theme in Bollywood — the ongoing debate over pay parity and profit-sharing. Male actors have long commanded astronomical fees and backend deals, often without scrutiny. But when a female actor asserts similar demands, the narrative quickly shifts to “unreasonable” or “demanding.” This double standard needs to be challenged, and perhaps Shraddha’s bold move contributes to that change, even if it cost her a role.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time a major Bollywood film has hit turbulence over payments. In the past, several A-listers — male and female — have walked away from projects that didn’t meet their financial expectations or creative standards. What makes this case stand out is the transparency with which the figures are being discussed. ₹17 crore is not an outrageous demand in today’s industry standards, especially for someone with Shraddha’s resume. And asking for a stake in profits? That’s just smart business.
As fans and industry watchers await further updates, one thing is clear: the entertainment industry is evolving. Actors are becoming more business-savvy, producers are becoming more cautious, and audiences are more curious than ever about the stories behind the scenes. Whether or not this film eventually gets made with a new lead, the conversation it has sparked around value, gender equity, and professional boundaries is a necessary one.
For now, fans may be disappointed not to see Shraddha in another thrilling avatar, but this chapter will certainly be remembered as a bold stance by an actress who knows her worth. Let’s hope that in the future, such negotiations pave the way for more balanced, respectful, and rewarding collaborations in Bollywood.