The iconic Ashiqui franchise returns with its third installment, helmed by director Anurag Basu and produced by T-Series. Ashiqui 3 is already making headlines not only for its nostalgic appeal but also for its casting choices—especially with Kartik Aaryan in the lead and Sreeleela making her Bollywood debut. While official salary numbers remain confidential, insider reports and industry benchmarks allow for a clear analysis of what the lead cast, director, music team, and technical crew are likely to earn.
Cast and Crew Overview
- Film Title: Ashiqui 3
- Production House: T-Series (Bhushan Kumar)
- Lead Actor: Kartik Aaryan
- Lead Actress: Sreeleela
- Director: Anurag Basu
- Music Director: Likely Pritam
Estimated Salaries: Cast and Crew
Kartik Aaryan – Lead Actor
Estimated Salary: ₹7–8 crore
Kartik Aaryan, one of Bollywood’s leading young stars, has previously commanded ₹15–20 crore per film. For Ashiqui 3, a music-heavy emotional romance, sources estimate a slightly reduced fee in the ₹7–8 crore range. His association adds both credibility and commercial appeal to the project.
Sreeleela – Lead Actress
Estimated Salary: ₹2 crore
Sreeleela, a prominent face in South Indian cinema, will make her Hindi film debut with Ashiqui 3. According to reports from Deccan Chronicle and Republic World, she has accepted ₹2 crore for the film—a strategic move to enter Bollywood through a high-profile franchise.
Anurag Basu – Director
Estimated Salary: ₹6–10 crore
Known for visually rich films like Barfi! and Ludo, Anurag Basu is expected to earn between ₹6 and ₹10 crore, depending on whether his compensation includes profit-sharing. His storytelling sensibility is considered ideal for a musical romance.
Music Director – Likely Pritam
Estimated Salary: ₹2–4 crore
Though unconfirmed, composer Pritam is the leading contender for the film’s music. His fee typically ranges from ₹2 to ₹4 crore, depending on the project’s scale. Considering the musical legacy of the Ashiqui franchise, the music director’s role will be crucial.
Supporting Cast and Technical Crew Salaries
Screenwriters
Estimated Salary: ₹20 lakh – ₹1 crore
Depending on whether the script is original or adapted and the writer’s experience, compensation varies widely.
Supporting Actors
Estimated Salary: ₹20 lakh – ₹50 lakh
Secondary roles are often filled by reliable character actors who charge within this range based on screen time and popularity.
Editor and Cinematographer (DOP)
Estimated Salary: ₹5 lakh – ₹50 lakh
Both roles are key to maintaining visual tone and storytelling rhythm, with fees varying by experience and film complexity.
Assistant Directors
Estimated Salary: ₹25,000 – ₹1 lakh per month
Assistant directors typically earn based on their tier within the team—from AD interns to Chief ADs.
Junior Crew (Lighting, Set Assistants, Camera Helpers)
Estimated Salary: ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 per day
Crew members in these categories are hired on a daily wage basis and are crucial to on-set operations.
Strategic Pay Structure and Production Analysis
Sreeleela’s Entry Strategy
Sreeleela’s reduced debut fee compared to her regional market rate is a calculated move to secure a strong launchpad in Bollywood. With Ashiqui 3 backed by a proven banner and strong male lead, the career tradeoff may yield long-term rewards.
Budget Distribution
The largest share of the budget is expected to go toward direction, music, and lead cast salaries. With Kartik Aaryan and Anurag Basu likely earning a combined ₹15 crore or more, producers have invested heavily in creative leadership.
Music as a Central Investment
Given the historic success of the Ashiqui soundtracks, music rights and composition are likely among the top three budget priorities. If Pritam is confirmed, music-related costs (including singers, composers, lyricists) could exceed ₹5 crore in total.
Summary Table of Key Salaries
| Role | Name | Estimated Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Actor | Kartik Aaryan | ₹7–8 crore |
| Lead Actress | Sreeleela | ₹2 crore |
| Director | Anurag Basu | ₹6–10 crore |
| Music Director (likely) | Pritam | ₹2–4 crore |
| Screenwriter | TBD | ₹20 lakh – ₹1 crore |
| Supporting Cast | TBD | ₹20 – ₹50 lakh |
| Editor / DOP | TBD | ₹5 – ₹50 lakh |
| Assistant Directors | Multiple | ₹25k – ₹1 lakh/month |
| Junior Crew | Multiple | ₹1k – ₹1.5k/day |
Final Thoughts
While official disclosures may arrive closer to the film’s release, available industry data and verified reports offer a reliable estimate of Ashiqui 3’s talent payouts. Kartik Aaryan’s market appeal, Sreeleela’s calculated debut, and Anurag Basu’s direction position the film for critical and commercial traction. With music again expected to be the heartbeat of the story, the project blends nostalgia, romance, and high-value production in a modern package.
