In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through Bollywood circles, new details have emerged about the massive pay disparity between two of India's biggest superstars. According to exclusive reports, Aamir Khan was set to receive a staggering fee that was more than double what Shah Rukh Khan would have earned for the same project.
The Blockbuster That Never Was
The film in question, titled 'Perfect Boy Next Door,' was supposed to be a major romantic drama featuring none other than Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as the female lead. The project generated significant buzz in the early 2000s but ultimately never saw the light of day.
Breaking Down the Numbers
Industry insiders reveal that Aamir Khan had negotiated a fee of approximately Rs 35 crore for the film, while Shah Rukh Khan's asking price was around Rs 15 crore. This represents one of the most significant pay gaps ever recorded between the two Khans, who have dominated Bollywood for decades.
What makes this disparity particularly interesting:
- The film was planned during peak stardom for both actors
- Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was at the height of her career
- Both Khans had delivered multiple blockbusters around that time
- The project had substantial production backing
Behind the Scenes Negotiations
Sources close to the production suggest that Aamir Khan's higher fee reflected his reputation for being extremely selective about projects and his track record of delivering critically acclaimed performances. Shah Rukh Khan, while equally popular, reportedly had a different approach to fee negotiations during that period.
The Aishwarya Rai Factor
The casting of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan added significant value to the project. As one of the most sought-after actresses in Bollywood history, her presence would have guaranteed international attention and box office appeal across multiple markets.
Why the Film Never Materialized
Despite the star-studded casting and substantial financial backing, 'Perfect Boy Next Door' faced numerous challenges that ultimately led to its cancellation:
- Scheduling conflicts between the three mega-stars
- Creative differences among the production team
- Budget constraints exacerbated by the high star fees
- Logistical challenges of coordinating three A-list actors
This revelation provides fascinating insight into the complex dynamics of Bollywood star negotiations and the financial realities of big-budget filmmaking in India's entertainment industry.
