Ronnie Screwvala becomes Bollywood's richest as she surpasses Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan's combined wealth of $1.5 billion: Report

Filmmaker Ronnie Screwvala has entered Forbes' 2025 Billionaires List with a net worth of $1.5 billion, surpassing the combined wealth of Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan ($1.38 billion), according to a report published in Bollywood Hungama. Announced on April 2, 2025, this milestone makes him Bollywood’s richest figure, outshining its biggest stars.

From Toothbrushes to Blockbusters

Unlike the Khans, who made their wealth through acting and fame, Ronnie Screwvala built his fortune through production and business. Born in Mumbai, the 68-year-old started with a toothbrush company in the 1970s after studying commerce. He entered entertainment in the 1980s with cable TV and later founded UTV in 1990.

Backing Bollywood’s Biggest Films

Ronnie Screwvala has backed iconic films like Swades, Rang De Basanti, and Jodhaa Akbar. In 2012, he struck a massive deal, selling UTV to Disney for over a billion dollars. Not one to stay away for long, he returned in 2017 with RSVP Movies, delivering hits like Uri and Kedarnath.

Outshining Bollywood’s Biggest Stars

Shah Rukh Khan’s $770 million comes from films, Red Chillies Entertainment, and owning KKR. Salman Khan’s $390 million comes from acting, production, and Bigg Boss. Aamir Khan’s $220 million is tied to selective blockbusters like Dangal. Their combined $1.38 billion still falls short of Screwvala’s $1.5 billion, highlighting business over stardom.

Amitabh Bachchan surpasses Shah Rukh Khan

Amitabh Bachchan has become India’s highest tax-paying celebrity, surpassing Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan. He paid Rs 105 crore in taxes this year, a significant increase from last year’s Rs 71 crore. This highlights his continued financial success and contribution to the nation’s revenue.